This season, the Toronto Raptors began their rebuilding process. Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby were moved as the team sought to rebuild its roster around Scottie Barnes. It was a bold but essential decision. The Raptors were no longer contenders, and it was time to hand over control to the 22-year-old All-Star. They will determine which players are fit for the remainder of the season.
Toronto wants to return to the playoffs as soon as possible, and a second star will help make that happen. Barnes had a few alternatives to recruit during All-Star weekend, but who can they persuade to come to Canada?
This summer, the Raptors can exercise a $23 million team option on Bruce Brown. They are likely to pick it up and try to move him for a star. Multiple options will be open, but what unusual move will Toronto make? Here are a few wild options.
5. Raptors find Fred VanVleet’s replacement.
Losing VanVleet in free agency stung, and receiving no return made matters worse. Toronto signed Dennis Schroder and traded for Immanuel Quickley, but neither is a standout point guard. Barnes can handle the ball and make plays, but if the Raptors want to compete for the championship, they will need several creators.
The Hawks looked into the market for Dejounte Murray but couldn’t find a good deal before the trade deadline. Expect him to return to the market (membership required) this summer. Atlanta has to retool, and Murray may be a great fit for the Raptors. The exchange would probably look something like this.
Things did not go as planned in Atlanta, but Murray was an All-Star as the Spurs’ primary ball handler in 2022. He averaged more than nine assists, eight rebounds, and two steals per game. The 6’5 guard would fit in well and help the squad keep its defensive versatility. Murray may help Scottie Barnes and the Raptors return to the playoffs shortly.
This is far from an all-in move for the Toronto Raptors, and Masai Ujiri may choose to be aggressive this summer.
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