The Toronto Raptors seemed to pick a direction after months of speculation.
On Dec. 30, Toronto decided to pull the trigger on an O.G. Anunoby trade. They would send Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn to the New York Knicks for Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett and a 2024 secound-round pick (via Detroit).
It has become clear that Scottie Barnes is the player to build around as the Raptors bring in two young starters to accommodate him in this retooling. Quickley is 24 and Barrett is 23, who in two games have shown great production.
After this trade went down, the focus shifted to Pascal Siakam, as he seems to be the next man out. Also worth mentioning that he is an unrestricted free agent this summer.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski revealed that the Indiana Pacers are a team interested in Siakam:
“I believe the Pacers will continue to be a team that probes on Toronto’s Pascal Siakam.”
With the Pacers cashing in on Tyrese Haliburton a few seasons ago, he is showcasing the kind of star he can be. He is a great 3-point shooter and an elite-level playmaker. A talent that every player would want to play with.
Indiana has a lot of intriguing trade pieces due to the young players that are on the roster. Some names include Buddy Hield, Obi Toppin, Aaron Nesmith, Jarace Walker and Bennedict Mathurin.
Due to Siakam being on an expiring deal, Indiana does have leverage due to potential uncertainty if he will sign with them long-term. Which could limit Toronto from getting a player like Walker or Mathurin.
The trade deadline is on Feb. 8, which still gives Toronto time to find a potential new home for Siakam. But, for a team like the Pacers trying to win now with a player of Haliburton’s caliber, it makes sense to express interest in a veteran like Siakam.
Will Siakam ultimately be moved?
It would make sense for the Raptors to be motivated to move off Siakam, especially if he’s going to walk in the summer. To trade Anunoby and stop there, would not make too much sense in the grand scheme of things for Toronto.
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