The Toronto Raptors are going to change the shape of their roster in the coming days, as Masai Ujiri may try to move off some of his more expensive players while still maintaining a strong enough foundation to get back in the postseason picture relatively quickly.
The San Antonio Spurs are once again trying to sell off assets, as they are leaning fully into their pursuit of Victor Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson. Jakob Poeltl is obviously one of the most intriguing assets that San Antonio could part with, but he isn’t the only one.
Keldon Johnson and Devin Vassell will form the core of this team for the next few years, as they are still reeling from the whole Josh Primo debacle. Once again, this team will be looking to sell at the deadline.
After acquiring Thad Young and the pick that became Christian Koloko in exchange for Malaki Branham’s selection last season, Ujiri and the Spurs might need to get on the phone once again. This trio may be available, but should Toronto have an interest in all of them?
Toronto Raptors: Pass or Pursue 3 Spurs trade targets
SF Doug McDermott
The latest buzz suggests that McDermott can be had for one or two second-round picks. While adding another 6-7 forward to the mix might get some audible groans from big chunks of the Raptors’ fanbase, but McDermott would be a huge shot in the arm from the perimeter.
Over the last four seasons with Indiana and San Antonio, McDermott has averaged 11.6 points per game while nailing a ridiculous 42% of his 3-pointers on 4.5 attempts per contest. McDermott is a sniper, pure and simple. No team needs them more than Toronto.
The Toronto Raptors need shooters like Doug McDermott.
McDermott still has one year left on his deal, worth over $13 million. While paying a 31-year-old defensive liability that much money isn’t ideal, his offensive game would be so effective at solving one of Toronto’s main problems offensively that it might be worth footing the bill.
Second-round picks can be valuable, especially for a franchise like Toronto that has made a habit of drafting and developing young players. Even with that qualification, Toronto should at least kick the tires on a veteran like McDermott that will assimilate and produce right away.
Verdict: Pursue