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3 Raptors trade targets on rebuilding Eastern Conference teams

By Mike Luciano

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - APRIL 01: Mo Bamba #5 of the Orlando Magic looks to pass during a game against the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - APRIL 01: Mo Bamba #5 of the Orlando Magic looks to pass during a game against the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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Toronto Raptors, Isaiah Stewart
Nov 13, 2021; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart (28) tries to block a shot from Toronto Raptors center Khem Birch (24) Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons

The Stewart proposition might be the most attractive of the three to some, and rumors of a trade are likely not going away as long as Detroit continues to keep its name in the Deandre Ayton sweepstakes. A big four of Ayton, Cade Cunningham, Saddiq Bey, and the No. 5 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft could push Stewart out.

Stewart averaged 8.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game last year, flexing his muscles in the paint and becoming a quality rebounder despite his 6-8 frame. Stewart is one of the most versatile centers in the league that carries a 250-pound frame. He could be in for an Achiuwa-esque production bump.

Isaiah Stewart makes sense for the Toronto Raptors.

Stewart might not be the most refined offensive player right now, but that has not been something that has prevented Toronto from rolling on athletic packages in the past. If Ayton or another big name comes to man the center spot, Stewart could become a sought-after trade chip.

Stewart and Achiuwa teaming up on the bench would give the Raptors a nasty 1-2 punch. Likewise, Stewart moving over to the starting spot and allowing Gary Trent Jr. to chuck up as many shots as possible on the bench might be a prudent move to make. If Stewart keeps improving, the possibilities are endless.