Raptors trade rumors: 2 Western teams fighting over OG Anunoby

The trade rumors surrounding the Toronto raptors are perhaps just as interesting, if not more so, than the feckless product being put on the court right now. OG Anunoby has seen his name pop up in the latest batches of rumors frequently amid some buzz that he is looking for a change of scenery.

Anunoby’s value could be as high as three first-round picks, if reports of the New York Knicks’ alleged offer are to be believed. With Anunoby averaging a tick under 17 points per game while still playing elite defense on an affordable contract, it’s easy to see where the value lies.

Teams in the Western Conference, which may not have that one dominant squad who runs away with anything, could acquire a huge difference-maker in Anunoby, According to NBA insider Chris Haynes on his latest podcast appearance, that’s exactly what top teams are thinking of doing.

Haynes said that the New Orleans Pelicans are very high on OG Anunoby, believing that he would be a great fit in their scheme. Haynes added that a division rival in the Memphis Grizzlies would hate to see New Orleans get OG, which could create a minor bidding war.

Toronto Raptors trade rumors: Pelicans eyeing OG Anunoby.

The Pelicans went from a contender to one of the worst-performing teams in the league following the Zion Williamson injury. Anunoby is an upgraded version of promising wings like Herbert Jones and Trey Murphy III that could appeal to New Orleans.

Memphis is looking for that one piece that can make them better than a Denver Nuggets team which lacks the first-round picks needed to make a seismic trade at the deadline. Anunoby can still shoot well and defend expertly, and Memphis has had success with similarly skilled players lately.

The Grizzlies will likely try to tempt Toronto with young assets like former first-round picks Ziaire Williams and David Roddy in a trade. New Orleans may be unwilling to give up Dyson Daniels, but they might be able to part with names like Murphy or Naji Marshall if they are desperate enough.

Something has got to change for this Raptors roster, and the combination of Anunoby’s flatlining offensive play and desire for a new team has made him the most likely of the five starters to be moved potentially. New Orleans and Memphis would be a great basketball home for him.