Top buyout candidates after the NBA trade deadline

Markieff Morris

Markieff Morris is the second twin on our list whose brother also happens to play for a rival Eastern Conference team. His brother, Marcus, plays for the Celtics. Markieff is a 6’10” forward who was moved to the New Orleans Pelicans ahead of the deadline. At age 29, he is playing in his seventh season in the association and carries an $8.6M cap hit.

It is unclear whether the Pelicans intend to hold onto Morris or not. They currently sit 13th in the Western Conference without much hope of making the playoffs. The Pelicans also received a 2023 second-round pick in exchange for Wesley Johnson. Since this appears to have been a deal centered around the cap and cost savings, it could mean that Morris still gets bought out.

Currently sidelined with a neck injury, Morris is an imposing figure. He knows how to intimidate players and force them to take the shots they would otherwise prefer to avoid. In the 34 games he played for the Wizards this season, he scored 11.5 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game.

His play in the post on both ends makes him a desirable asset. He is able to drive to the cup and post up opponents with ease. Morris is also an efficient shooter. Thanks to his inside play, he is shooting over 50% when putting up a two-ball. Morris has perfected using his frame to allow him the space to score.

The Raptors would be happy to have a shot at including Morris in their plans for the postseason. They could potentially see Boston as a second-round matchup, where the Morris twins could cancel each other out. Markieff is a prime backup poweforward to play as Pascal Siakam sits.

The Raptors would have to consider what sort of role Morris would play and to what extent. He could want to join another team who have greater needs, meaning he would get more minutes. Though perhaps he may want to chase a ring with the Raptors. No matter how the Raps see him, he would be an excellent insurance policy for an injury to a forward.