Raptors trade rumors: 3 quality big men on Eastern Conference teams

The Toronto Raptors trade rumors are starting to kick back up, as the trade deadline is fast approaching. Masai Ujiri and the front office can go in one of two directions, as they could sell off starters for future assets or make a significant addition that improves their postseason chances.

The Raptors will likely try to improve, as some can attribute their poor play to injuries and some rotten luck in close games. If the organization is not budging on this core, it will likely try to add either some expert shooting for the perimeter or an experienced rim-protecting center.

Even if Ujiri decides to go down the selling route, Toronto will likely target young, controllable players who can plug holes on this team in 2023 and beyond. There is no way this roster will remain unchanged by the time the deadline comes and goes, as Ujiri is likely well aware of how this team functions right now.

Having already identified three big men in the Western Conference that could be solid Raptors rotation players if Ujiri acquires them, it’s now time to turn their focus closer on the Eastern Conference. Any one of these three players could come right in and make an immediate impact.

Toronto Raptors trade rumors: 3 Eastern Conference big men to target.

3. Mo Bamba, Orlando Magic

The Raptors have been linked to Bamba for years, and this season has only made the fit even more sensible. The Magic are moving forward with Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr. in the frontcourt, making Bamab expendable despite resigning with the team.

If the Raptors end up getting more depth by trading a starter to Orlando, Bamba could be one of a trio of players that come up north. Given the team’s consistent lack of rebounding skill and shot-blocking, Bamba would plug both of their holes while still being a worthwhile offensive piece.

Mo Bamba fills multiple holes for the Toronto Raptors.

Bamba’s minutes and box score stats have decreased since his breakout year, but his field goal percentage and 3-point percentages are basically identical, showing that he could return to his old form if given a bigger offensive role. He’ll find that in Toronto, while his Orlando role is getting smaller by the day.

Be it through a smaller move that gets Bamba freed from the constraints Jamahl Mosley has placed on him or a larger, Fred VanVleet-esque deal that sees multiple players and picks exchanged, Orlando might be willing to give Bamba over to Toronto. They know how badly the Raptors need height.