2 reasons Raptors could trade for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (and 1 reason they wont)

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Toronto Raptors, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

TORONTO, ON – DECEMBER 8: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder is guarded bay Pascal Siakam #43 and Gary Trent Jr. #33 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) /

Why they Will: Fit on the team

Everyone knows that the Raptors love length and speed, and there aren’t many perimeter players that can blow past even the staunchest perimeter defenders while being able to star at both guard spots like SGA can. Even though Mitchell is dominating in Cleveland, Gilgeous-Alexander may be a better Raptors fit.

Gilgeous-Alexander can handle the ball, shoot well from 3-point range, be an effective scorer and passer when in transition, and knockdown big shots in the clutch. If Ujiri could draw up a guard on a board, this is what it would look like. Players like him are very rarely available.

The Toronto Raptors are the perfect place for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Assuming that Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes are non-starters in trade talks, the Raptors could roll out some very interesting lineups with SGA in the fold. Imagine trying to score on a Shai-Scottie-O.G. Anunoby-Siakam-Christian Koloko lineup. Now imagine trying to stop them on the other end.

The Raptors know that any sort of Gilgeous-Alexander trade (despite Drake’s best efforts and wishes) will bring about a seismic shift in how this team operates. However, if they want to return to the Finals with this core remaining mostly intact, making this deal could be the most logical way to build a win.

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