Raptors trade rumors: 3 Fred VanVleet suitors after Kyrie Irving trade

1. Los Angeles Lakers

Much to the ire of LeBron James, Rob Pelinka was unable to secure Irving’s services. However, their pursuit of Irving shows that this franchise is desperate to acquire a third star that can help James and Anthony Davis get back in the title hunt. VanVleet could easily check that box.

While the Raptors would assuredly have no interest in acquiring Russell Westbrook, they could get a third team involved. LA could give up Westbrook and two first-round picks, Toronto could get an amalgamation of picks and players from the third team in question, and VanVleet can move to the Klutch Sports stronghold in LA. 

Toronto Raptors trade rumors: Can the Lakers get Fred VanVleet?

The panic out of LA is palpable, which puts Ujiri (who already has tons of leverage) in an even more advantageous position. The Lakers need a high-end shooter and ball-handler, and the market for such a player has essentially dried up after the Kyrie move.

It remains to be seen if VanVleet would sign with the Lakers long-term, as they have quite a significant chunk of change tied up in their marquee players. Even if it’s just a rental, LA will likely try to pry VanVleet away from the Raptors.