Raptors Consider Trade Options for Point Guards
The Toronto Raptors made some significant changes to their roster this offseason, particularly in the point guard position. With Fred VanVleet leaving for Houston and Dalano Banton heading to Boston, the Raptors are left with only one point guard currently under contract – Malachi Flynn.
However, the future of Jeff Dowtin Jr. remains uncertain. The Raptors made a qualifying offer to him as a restricted free agent, giving him multiple options. He can either accept the offer and stay with the Raptors, sign an offer sheet with another team (with the Raptors having the option to match), agree to a different deal with the Raptors, or sign overseas.
To fill the void, the Raptors have agreed to terms with Dennis Schröder shortly after VanVleet’s departure. Schröder will join Flynn in the playmaking role, along with the possibility of Dowtin contributing if he stays with the team. The Raptors also have Markquis Nowell, who signed a two-way deal.
However, the Raptors are considering other options to address their point guard situation. They could look to make a trade, either a major one involving their accomplished veterans Pascal Siakam or O.G. Anunoby, or a minor deal for a new point guard.
Several veterans have been mentioned as potential trade targets. Malcolm Brogdon of the Boston Celtics stands out as the best player the Raptors could acquire without giving up one of their forwards. Despite his injury history, Brogdon has consistently performed well when healthy and would provide a much-needed shooting boost to the Raptors. A potential trade could involve Gary Trent Jr.
Another option is Delon Wright of the Washington Wizards, who could replace one Bench Mob guard with another. Wright’s off-ball playing style and above-average defense would complement Anunoby’s workload well. However, dealing with the rebuilding Wizards may involve additional draft picks.
Ricky Rubio of the Cleveland Cavaliers brings a veteran presence and positive energy to any team he joins. The Cavaliers recently acquired Ty Jerome, which could make Rubio expendable. The Raptors could benefit from his experience and potential championship-winning contributions. A trade involving Otto Porter Jr. has been suggested.
Devonte’ Graham of the San Antonio Spurs could be an intriguing option for the Raptors. In addition to acquiring his services, the Raptors may have an opportunity to recoup a second-round pick owed to the Spurs from a previous trade. Graham’s scoring ability and outside shooting would address the Raptors’ needs. A potential trade package could involve Porter and Thaddeus Young.
Younger options from the class of 2020 could also be considered. Payton Pritchard of the Boston Celtics has been more of an off-ball threat in his first three years but has shown promise as a dependable backup. He could potentially be obtained in a trade involving Precious Achiuwa.
Killian Hayes of the Detroit Pistons is a defensive prospect with shooting struggles. With the Pistons loaded with young guards and playmakers, Hayes may not be a priority for them. A trade involving Chris Boucher could be explored.
Cole Anthony of the Orlando Magic is another player in a similar situation as Hayes. With the Magic acquiring young playmakers, Anthony’s future with the team could be uncertain. Adding him as a scoring option or sixth-man type player could benefit the Raptors. A possible trade package might include Boucher and Chuma Okeke.
Kira Lewis Jr. of the New Orleans Pelicans suffered an ACL injury and has had limited playing time since. Acquiring Lewis would be a low-risk move for the Raptors as they evaluate his potential. A trade involving Porter has been suggested.
Overall, the Raptors have several options to address their point guard situation through trades and player signings. As the offseason progresses, it will be interesting to see how they navigate these possibilities and shape their roster for the upcoming season.