The Toronto Raptors are looking to make this rebuild as painless as possible.
Usually when an NBA team goes through this transition, it can take numerous years. However, the Raptors are ahead of schedule with three talented young players.
Now, Toronto needs to surround Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett with complimentary pieces. A name worth watching this season is Gradey Dick, who showcased strong play during the preseason.
Although, the trade market is always an option to improve the roster. Bleacher Report named trade targets for every team and Toronto has some intriguing options.
First up is Washington Wizards’ forward Corey Kispert, who possesses a similar skillset to Dick, but is more developed.
With not much scoring in Washington outside of Jordan Poole and Kyle Kuzma, Kispert is set to be the third scoring option.
It would be cheap to trade for the former Gonzaga Bulldog as he is only making $5 million in a contract year.
Next, Bleacher Report lists Miami Heat forward Duncan Robinson, who is a bit more of an expensive option as a sharpshooter. Slatted to make $19 million this upcoming season, Robinson has an Early Termination Option for the 2025-26 season.
Essentially, it would be a one-year rental for either Kispert or Robinson. But, to surround Toronto’s young core with shooters would be ideal and either could fit well in head coach Darko Rajakovic’s system.
Lastly, B/R suggests Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball, who made his return from a two-year absence due to a left knee injury. Assuming he is returning to his 3-and-D ways and truly healthy, many teams could be interested.
Again, he is another player entering the last year of his contract.
While a Ball and Quickley backcourt could be intriguing, Toronto would have to be okay with taking opportunity away from Dick, Ja’Kobe Walter and Jamal Shead.
ESPN ranks Scottie Barnes No. 35 in Top 100 list
None of this trade talk matters unless Scottie Barnes continues to take the next step as the face of the Raptors. After an impressive season last year, ESPN rewarded him by ranking Barnes No. 35 in their Top 100 list.
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