Raptors news: Gary Trent Jr-Lakers rumors, Clippers eyeing VanVleet?

The Toronto Raptors are projected to be one of the most involved sellers in the NBA, as names like Gary Trent Jr. and OG Anunoby could be on the block. Trent may be just 24 years old, but his value is as high as it has ever been. The Raptors could avoid paying him a humungous contract and turn him into first-round picks.

Trent is averaging 18.6 points per game, though his performance since being reinserted into the starting lineup goes to show that he is an ascending young star. With solid defense to boot, prospective playoff teams across the league, including one noteworthy name out West, are hot on his tail.

According to Jake Fischer on his latest podcast appearance, the Lakers are keeping their ears open and potentially monitoring the availability of Trent. However, Fischer qualified that statement by saying that a particular agency that happens to represent Trent and many Lakers players (Hint: Their name rhymes with Hutch Sports) could be behind that leak.

“I don’t know if they have actually called Toronto…but I’ve been told and believe from credible folks maybe it’s not a lusting desire for Gary Trent, but he at least seems to be someone they’re monitoring,” Fischer said. “But maybe that’s also just someone from a certain agency suggesting that. Maybe that’s all it is. But we shall see.”

More Raptors news:

• Matt Moore of the Action Network reported that the Clippers have an interest in acquiring either Fred VanVleet or Kyle Lowry. “[Kawhi] Leonard has made it clear to the Clippers front office that he would welcome a point guard addition, and it’s no surprise…Lowry and VanVleet, are on their short list of targets,” Moore said.
• Former Raptors wing Sam Dekker, who won a preseason roster competition against Suns two-way forward Ish Wainright, was named MVP of the BBL Cup Final after leading the London Lions to the title. Dekker averaged 18.3 points per game this season. Could a return to the NBA be in the cards for the Wisconsin alum?

https://twitter.com/LondonLions/status/1619751736952098817

NBA news:

• The NBA admitted that LeBron James was indeed fouled on what could have been a game-winning layup against the Boston Celtics. James and the Lakers eventually lost in overtime. yet again, the officials continue to make fools of themselves in the biggest moments.
• New Orleans Pelicans wing (and potential Raptors trade target) Trey Murphy III was named as the final participant in the 2023 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. Murphy will join G League player Mac McClung, Portland Trail Blazers rookie Shaedon Sharpe, and Houston Rockets forward Kenyon Martin Jr.