Should Raptors be interested in Kenyon Martin Jr. trade?

The Toronto Raptors could pursue some sort of low-stakes trade if they want to retain OG Anunoby and develop another switchable backup. With more trade rumors continuing to surround the Houston Rockets, going after Kneyon Martin Jr. should be something Toronto does their homework on.

Despite the fact that the son of the former Nets and Nuggets stud was picked late in the second round, he took advantage of a Houston team willing to play their young players. Martin has become a solid NBA player over the last two years, but it looks like he is calling time on his Houston tenure.

On top of the fact that Martin has been asking for a trade for months now, the fact that Houston used the No. 3 overall pick on Jabari Smith and another Top 20 choice on Tari Eason may make it even harder for Martin to get consistent playing time. Simply put, he sees the writing on the wall.

Martin, per Kelly Iko of The Athletic, is garnering trade interest from the Trail Blazers and Nets. The Raptors might need to give Houston even more draft picks, but that might be worth it if Martin can replicate his ability to impressive offensive potential in Toronto.

Could the Toronto Raptors trade for Kenyon Martin Jr. this offseason?

Martin has averaged 9.0 points and 4.3 rebounds per game during his tenure with Houston. While shooting 52% from the floor is certainly impressive, hitting 36% of his 3-pointers shows that his offensive potential might be worth taking a look at.

Martin’s value could be difficult to gague. On one hand, he’s a young player that will only get better as a trusted backup to names like Scottie Barnes in Toronto. On the other, Ujiri will have to wonder if his production stems from the fact that Houston was not trying to be competitive.

Martin’s defense is without a doubt the biggest question mark around him as a player. Playing for an awful rockets team didn’t help, but Martin’s defensive numbers on the floor are exceedingly poor. Toronto shouldn’t be totally out on him just yet, as the way they turned around Gary Trent Jr. gives hope for Martin and his ability to improve.

Switchability? Check. Raw athletic talent? You got it. A somewhat solid 3-point shot that could be even better once Nick Nurse gets a hold of him? Indeed. The Rockets are not going to part with an ascending young talent for chump change, but Ujiri could certainly do worse if he wants to flip a future draft pick for a tangible asset.