- Siakam does not fit Toronto’s rebuild timeline
- NBA claims Siakam trade is inevitable
- Potential trade destinations still unknown for 2x All-Star
The NBA trade market has completely dried up following the chaos and mayhem of NBA free agency. With most teams having settled into their final rosters, there are only a few big names likely to be moved before the start of next season.
In Toronto, Pascal Siakam is projected to be on a different team again some time in the future, with some insiders labeling the outcome as an ‘inevitability.’
“It seems inevitable the Toronto Raptors will deal Siakam,” said league insider Mark Medina. “It’s become increasingly clear the Raptors are not currently constructed to become a serious playoff threat. So what’s the point in running on empty calories just to finish in the middle of the standings?”
Of course, experts also predicted the Raptors would make a trade at the deadline before nothing happened. In this case, however, it almost makes too much sense to move Siakam, even if it’s during the season.
“It seems unpredictable, however, on when the Raptors trade Siakam. They expect a strong deal for return in the form of quality rotation players, expiring contracts and draft picks, all qualities that help accelerate a rebuild.”
After missing the playoffs entirely last season, the Raptors already know that their current core cannot win a title together. Now, it’s just about finding the right deal that will push this team’s ceiling several levels higher.
Siakam As Last Ditch Effort In Portland?
It’s still too early to say where Siakam ultimately ends up, but the Blazers have both the assets and the motive to make a compelling offer. If they can add Siakam to Lillard and Jerami Grant, it may just convince their franchise player to stick around for one more season.
In 71 games for Toronto last season, Siakam averaged 24.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game on 48% shooting. That performance is great for any win-now team, but the Raptors may prefer going younger with Scottie Barne leading the way.
If so, things could get very interesting for desperate teams across the league.
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