Toronto Raptors: 3 trades that move the Raptors up in 2021 NBA Draft order

Toronto Raptors trade No. 3: The Raptors take the top pick from Detroit

Cunningham is one of the best prospects we’ve seen in years, as he is every bit of 6-8, a tremendous shooter and scorer, a quality passer, and a vocal leader who was able to help the Cowboys make some noise in the postseason. If the Raptors want him, they need to give up a ton to secure his services.

Due to the Stepien Rule, the Raptors are unable to trade away first-round picks in consecutive years. This move would essentially give the Pistons control of Toronto’s draft three times in a four-year span between 2024 and 2026, but if the Raptors are sold on Cunningham, they should get Troy Weaver on the phone.

Would the Pistons give up Cade Cunningham to the Raptors?

This trade is risky for both sides. If the Raptors fail to get back to their winning ways, they will find it much harder to rebuild without premium picks. If Cunningham is as good as advertised, the Pistons will be mocked until the end of time for passing on him.

Trading the No. 1 pick has happened before, as evidenced by players like Andrew Wiggins, Chris Webber, and Joe Barry Carroll, so this is not uncharted territory. If the Pistons want to continue gaining assets, and if the Raptors want to add a game-changer, this deal might be realized.