Are trades finally going to happen in the NBA?
News broke out early Wednesday afternoon that the Toronto Raptors were interested in accquiring the talents of Markieff Morris and PJ Tucker from the Phoenix Suns.
Surprise, surprise… Can I call them, or what?
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ESPN’s Marc Stein was ever so gracious in Tweeting out the report:
ESPN sources say Toronto is among the teams expressing trade interest in Suns swingman P.J. Tucker in advance of the Feb. 18 trade deadline
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 3, 2016
Followed by this:
Given Suns have continued to hold out for quality pick or player for disgruntled Markieff Morris, expect them to seek nice pick for Tucker
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 3, 2016
And finally this:
Toronto, I'm told, also showing interest in Suns' Markieff Morris; PHX widely seen as a LOCK to do at least one deal before Feb. 18 deadline
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 3, 2016
What this means for the Raptors is that Masai Ujiri might very well be ready and willing to double down on the Raptors and solidify his mark on the team. Phoenix is a team who is simply heading in the opposite direction, having suffered from injuries and poor front office decisions. A move like this is exactly what the doctor ordered.
The particulars of any deal involving the Suns would need to involve a draft pick or a great young prospect. Luckily, the Raptors have both at their disposal. Here’s what an ideal trade between the Raptors and Suns would potentially look like:
Although, Phoenix might want a bit more to make the move worth their while, so something more like this:
Depending on which deal the Suns would choose to take would most likely determine the round of the picks. The year of the picks would probably be 2017, and if it’s a first round pick, expect it to be lottery protected depending on the pick the Raptors give up.
I’m not going to go into too much detail on the players involved, as I’ve already done so here, here and here. The only real change is the improved play of Terrence Ross, which would make me hesitant to move him. That said, additions of Morris and Tucker (who would be making his second stint in Toronto) solidify the front court of Toronto and gives Coach Dwane Casey more flexible options when deploying small ball lineups.
I’ll be keeping a close eye on this story as it develops, and hopefully it manifests into something excellent. Ball’s in your court now, Masai.
Next: 3 Trades Masai Ujiri Must Consider For The Raptors
All stats are provided by Basketball-Reference.com unless otherwise stated. Matthew Allman is a staff writer for Raptors Rapture. For more coverage on the Toronto Raptors, follow Matthew on Twitter @ShadowRapsFan and also follow @RaptorsRapture for the latest in Raptors news.