Toronto Raptors: Multiple teams calling Toronto about Norman Powell trade

The Toronto Raptors are still figuring out if they will be buyers or sellers at the deadline, as their quality roster has been let down by the fact that several star players have missed time due to the league’s health and safety protocols. While they could be buyers and trade for someone like Tristan Thompson, star guard Norman Powell might also be on the move.

While Powell is averaging 19.0 points per game on 49% shooting overall and 43.5% from 3-point range, those numbers actually belie his true effectiveness. Over the last six games, Powell has been averaging 28.2 points per contest, showing that he can be Toronto’s primary offensive option when called upon.

The Norman Powell trade rumors are still swirling, however, as he is all but certain not to pick up his $11.6 million player option next year. Rather than lose him for nothing in the offseason, the raptors appear to be considering trading him and getting something in return. He will have plenty of suitors on the open market.

On his latest podcast, ESPN’s Zach Lowe claimed that he would “take him more hands than he has” to count how many clubs have called Masai Ujiri and tried to hammer out a deal for Powell. If the Raptors keep losing, trading the former second-round pick might become an unfortunate reality that fans will have to deal with.

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The Toronto Raptors could sell high on Norman Powell

Powell is quickly becoming one of the game’s best shooters, but his contract situation could drive down his price and make it difficult for Toronto to get an established player in return. Still, some contenders might be willing to part with some draft capital in order to secure his services.

Powell might not be the best defender in the world, but in a league where outside shooting and the ability to catch fire from 3-point range is a more valuable trait than it has ever been, Powell might fetch quite an interesting package of picks and players for Toronto.

Even though they are lacking a ton of draft picks to move in this deal, both the Lakers and Clippers could be viable options for the San Diego native and former UCLA star. An Eastern Conference trade could be less likely, but Boston and Philadelphia have plenty of picks and young players they can move.

Powell came to the Raptors as an unknown who had to fight to get on the roster, and he has since blossomed into a clutch shooter that can regularly score more than 30 points per game. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and trading Powell might get Toronto some pieces to help them compete in 2021 and beyond.