The Toronto Raptors are hungry to re-enter the playoff conversation in the 2025-26 NBA season, thanks to a blend of seasoned talent and stars. With Scottie Barnes solidifying his status as the franchise cornerstone, highlighted by his 2024 All-Star appearance and a record-setting $225 million extension, Toronto is building a strong roster.
The acquisition of Brandon Ingram, a former All-Star, added a dynamic scoring presence, while RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley provide depth and versatility in the backcourt. However, despite these promising pieces, the Raptors’ lineup lacks a consistent two-way guard capable of elevating the team’s defensive and offensive balance.
To address this need, Toronto could explore trade opportunities that could introduce a proven two-way talent into the fold. A trade proposal involves acquiring a forgotten All-Star, an experienced guard who has the potential to complement the existing core. Let’s dive into it.
Proposed Trade Details
Toronto Raptors Receive: Dejounte Murray
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: RJ Barrett, 2031 second-round pick (TOR)
Toronto Raptors Build A Complete Starting Lineup In The East
The Toronto Raptors are a well-rounded, playoff-ready squad. With Scottie Barnes emerging as the franchise cornerstone and Brandon Ingram adding a proven All-Star impact, the Raptors have a strong core. RJ Barrett’s solid season, where he averaged 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, is an asset but could be expendable.
The presence of Immanuel Quickley adds scoring to the talented backcourt, while Jakob Poeltl’s steady presence in the paint provides defensive force inside. This mix of youth and experience places the Raptors as a legitimate problem in the Eastern Conference.
However, the Raptors’ lineup lacked a consistent two-way guard capable of elevating both ends of the floor. Dejounte Murray, with his defensive prowess and playmaking ability, emerged as a prime target. In the 2024-25 season, Murray averaged 17.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game, showcasing his all-around contributions.
His defensive stats, including a 2.0 steals per game average, shows he can be an impact player on that end. Putting Murray into the starting lineup would provide the Raptors with the defensive anchor and secondary playmaker they needed.
The proposed trade, sending RJ Barrett and a 2031 second-round pick to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Murray, addresses this gap. Barrett’s scoring ability and versatility made him a valuable asset, but the Raptors’ depth means they don’t lose their core strength.
With a starting lineup featuring Murray, Quickley, Ingram, Barnes, and Poeltl, the Raptors possess a balanced mix of offense, defense, and leadership, making them a serious contender in the East.
New Orleans Pelicans Continue Their Rebuild
The New Orleans Pelicans have to evaluate their direction for the future. After a disappointing 2024-25 season, where they finished with the fourth-fewest wins, the franchise faces critical decisions regarding their roster and long-term strategy.
The trade of Brandon Ingram to the Raptors was huge, signaling a potential shift away from simply rebuilding. With Zion Williamson’s injury history and off-court issues, the team must assess whether to build around him or explore alternative avenues.
The Pelicans’ 2025 offseason, so far, adds to this. Their decision to trade the No. 23 pick and a 2026 unprotected first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks for the No. 13 pick, used to select Maryland center Derik Queen, was certainly interesting.
Placing RJ Barrett into the lineup offers the Pelicans a proven scorer and playmaker. His 2024-25 season statistics, 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, demonstrate his capability to contribute immediately.
Pairing Barrett with talents like Derik Queen and Trey Murphy III could provide a balanced mix of experience and potential, creating an exciting future. This move could serve as a cornerstone in the Pelicans’ rebuilding process considerably.
A Solid Trade Idea That Puts The Raptors Back On The Map
The proposed trade between the Toronto Raptors and the New Orleans Pelicans offers benefits, giving both teams what they need. For the Raptors, acquiring Dejounte Murray fills the void of a two-way guard, improving their defense and playmaking depth.
His status alongside Quickley and Ingram creates a dynamic backcourt, while his defensive prowess complements the team’s existing strengths. This move positions the Raptors as a formidable contender in the Eastern Conference, with a balanced and versatile roster.
For the Pelicans, receiving RJ Barrett provides a proven scorer and playmaker to bolster their lineup. His ability to contribute immediately allows the team to remain competitive while integrating young talents like Derik Queen.
In conclusion, this trade represents a strong move for both teams. The Raptors vastly improve their playoff goals by adding a seasoned two-way guard, while the Pelicans gain an asset to aid in their rebuilding process.
