The Toronto Raptors could be looking to trade two starters for Kevin Durant.
Toronto continues to be linked to Durant in reports. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said the Raptors are ‘lurking’ in the Durant sweepstakes.
Windhorst also reported the Raptors are open to using the No. 9 overall pick in a potential trade for Durant.
As the rumors continue to come out, it is being speculated what the Raptors could offer in a potential deal.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Raptors “would be willing to part with either RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley for a significant roster upgrade.”
Then, Grant Afseth reported the Raptors are willing to trade any combination of RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, Jakob Poeltl and the No. 9 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft for Durant:
“League sources say the Raptors have explored a range of trade concepts that could involve a framework including any combination of RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, Jakob Poeltl and the No. 9 overall pick. While nothing appears imminent, there is internal openness to parting with one of Barrett or Quickley in a larger package, and Poeltl could be included depending on the structure.”
The Raptors trading two started and the No. 9 pick would be a huge gamble on Durant who will turn 37-years-old before next season. Also, Durant is on an expiring deal and he could end up being a rental if he and the Raptors don’t work out an extension. Durant is is eligible to sign a two-year, $122 million extension with any team that acquires him.
While Durant raises the Raptors’ ceiling, he doesn’t seem to make sense from a timeline standpoint. The Raptors were 30-52 last season and aren’t close to competing for a championship. Also, the Raptors would be giving up some significant depth, including their only true center on the roster in Poeltl.
It appears President Masai Ujiri is looking to be aggressive this summer for the Raptors. How aggressive he becomes is the ultimate question.
Toronto willing to ‘gamble’ on Kevin Durant trade
The Toronto Raptors could be eyeing a big Kevin Durant trade.
According to Marc Stein, the Raptors are among the teams open to acquiring the 36-year-old this offseason. Durant is on the final year of his current deal and is set to earn $54.7 million next season. He is eligible to sign a two-year, $122 million extension with any team that acquires him.
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