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5 very bold predictions ahead of Raptors’ 2022-23 season debut

By Mike Luciano

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 28: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - APRIL 28: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) /
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Masai Ujiri, Toronto Raptors
Mar 26, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors team president Masai Ujiri waits as fans exit Scotiabank Arena Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

3. One big deal is made at the trade deadline

The Raptors, according to Brian Windhorst, have the ingredients needed to make a titanic midseason trade that upsets the power balance in the Eastern Conference. Considering the ongoing Victor Wembanyama tank sweepstakes around him, the Raptors may be extra motivated to get a trade done.

With Wembanyama possibly emerging as the best prospect in the last decade, teams who could be in a position to land the French big man could sell off some of their prized assets earlier than usual. With multiple key pieces that could be very attractive to rebuilding teams, the Raptors can absorb another star.

Will the Toronto Raptors make a trade?

While reeling in the big fish known as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will likely not happen, that shouldn’t stop Ujiri from trying. Teams like the Spurs, Jazz, Pacers, and Thunder will all have assets that could be offloaded if they are infatuated with Victor.

The Raptors are one of the few teams in the league who have both the players to make a trade like this and an executive who is willing to throw caution to the wind and get an immediate short-term upgrade. The Raptors’ roster on opening night will in no way be the same by the end of the season.