5 Toronto Raptors trade targets who can fix bench scoring woes
By Mike Luciano
The Toronto Raptors have hit a rough patch recently, as injuries and illness have sidelined Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, Precious Achiuwa, and Gary Trent Jr. in the last few games. As a result, Toronto has generally been unable to fully take advantage of an easier schedule.
Toronto is in need of reinforcements, even when they return to full health. The last few games have exposed that one or two bad injuries can be enough to completely cripple the rotation and compromise the defensive integrity of Nick Nurse’s unique scheme.
If Masai Ujiri gets his trade wheels spinning again, the area it makes the most sense to target for improvements is the impoverished bench. One more quality bench gunner who can shoot could be the difference between winning and losing against some of the better teams in the East.
These five players have been either dodging trade rumors for months or recently placed into the ever-churning speculation machine. If the Raptors are sick of their current limitations as a team, don’t be surprised for one second if these players end up coming to town.
5 Toronto Raptors trade targets that can improve the bench.
5. Grayson Allen, Milwaukee Bucks
Allen may be one of the most easily hateable players in the league thanks to his infamous tripping exploits, but he has been a high-level shooter on playoff teams for multiple years in a row. With the Bucks reportedly looking to move him, Toronto could pounce.
Over the last three seasons, Allen has averaged 10.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game while making over 40% of his 3-pointers. Still just 27 years old with one more $8.5 million year on his contract, the Raptors wouldn’t have to break the bank to get Allen to Toronto.
Can the Toronto Raptors add Grayson Allen?
The Bucks are an insane 19.9 points per 100 possessions better when Allen is on the floor, including 18.8 points better on the defensive end. While clearly not an elite on-ball defender, Allen has made significant strides in this area over the course of his pro career.
Allen is entering his prime right now and has a very cost-effective deal, so the Raptors wouldn’t be the only team with playoff aspirations to throw their hat in the ring. There’s a chance Allen can be acquired without giving up a first-round pick, which will certainly appeal to Ujiri.