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Should Anthony Bennett be showing up on Raptors’ radar?

By Brian Boake

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Anthony Bennett is in play, at least if you believe the rumour mill. While I’ve heard nothing “hard” about the Minnesota Timberwolves’ plans, the power forward is not viewed as untouchable. His name was prominently mentioned prior to the June 25 draft, as Boston was interested in acquiring him and second-rounders in exchange for their higher spot. That didn’t happen, but he’s still on the market.

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From the viewpoint of the Toronto Raptors and their fans, Bennett is of enormous interest. The young Canadian power forward made huge strides this summer as a member of our national team. While he and his mates went down to defeat in a dreadful semi-final game against Venezuela, Anthony displayed a deft shooting touch from outside and a decent handle all through the grueling FIBA Americas tournament.

Feb 21, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Anthony Bennett (15) dunks the ball against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

Anthony certainly needed to show something, as his NBA career to date has been underwhelming. He was the first selection of the 2013 draft, then had a disastrous and injury-plagued rookie season in Cleveland. Anthony and Andrew Wiggins were moved to the T’wolves in exchange for disgruntled do-everything PF Kevin Love. While season 2 for Bennett was better, that’s not saying much (5.2 points & 3.8 rebounds per game). Regardless, his potential remains very high, and he’s only 22.

Bennett is precisely the same dimensions (a barrel-chested 6’8″ and 245 lbs.) as journeyman rebounder Reggie Evans, though he doesn’t yet display the same nose for the ball as Reggie. Bennett is developing an outside shooting game; whether interim coach Sam Mitchell (remember him? of course you do) gives him permission to let fly is another matter.

How about James Johnson and Lucas Nogueira for Bennett? Financially, the deal works with little pain. Anthony’s contract has a team option next year, so if he’s a bust, the Raptors haven’t lost much. But here’s where the transaction gets more interesting. Tristan Thompson appears to be some distance away from a long-term contract with Cleveland, and his agent has threatened to strike the Cavaliers from the list of TT’s potential homes without one. Assuming TT signs for this season only, would the Cavs decide to move him before the trade deadline rather than have him walk for no return? Would the Raptors take him, in exchange for Anthony Bennett?

Sure, this notion is more than a little off the wall. But if Bennett can’t push aside Patrick Patterson, then he should be moved on. Cleveland gets back their #1 pick, and has a slot for him. Tristan gets a half-season to be sure his home town is where he truly wants to be. Assuming the love is reciprocated, a 5-year deal with Thompson could be the highlight of Day 1 of 2016 free agency.

Next: Amir Johnson's departure hurts on & off court

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