The Toronto Raptors might be crashing and burning after failing to replicate the success of their 2021-22 season, but the Denver Nuggets are trending in the exact opposite direction. Nikola Jokic could win a third consecutive MVP by averaging a triple-double, and the Nuggets sit at the top of the Western Conference.
Denver would love nothing more than to make one more big trade, but they are more boxed in than most contenders. Not only has moving up in the draft and making a move for Aaron Gordon robbed them of many future first-round picks, but their roster features too many players who are either too valuable or not valuable enough to trade.
One exception to that rule is former first-round pick and backup point guard Bones Hyland. While he has been terrific during his first two seasons in the league, he likely will never hold down a starting spot with the Nuggets due to the presence of Jamal Murray. Toronto appears to be circling overhead.
The Raptors, along with the New Orleans Pelicans and Minnesota Timberwolves, have registered a degree of interest in acquiring Hyland, according to Mike Singer of the Denver Post. With so many big names yet to change hands as the deadline looms, Hyland might be the catalyst that sparks a trading frenzy.
#Nuggets trade primer with latest intel: *If* Bones Hyland gets moved, what could he land?https://t.co/KB7smpqlkQ
— Mike Singer (@msinger) February 8, 2023
Toronto Raptors trade rumors: Bones Hyland being discussed
Hyland is averaging 12.1 points and 3.0 assists per game this season. While he has connected on just 40% of his shots overall in his career, he has made 37% of his 3-point attempts. With or without Fred VanVleet, a player like Hyland is sorely needed on this Raptors team.
OG Anunoby going to Denver makes logical sense, as they could use one more switchable defender and shooter around Jokic. Given how the Stepien Rule will make it difficult for the Nuggets to trade many of their recent first-round picks, Hyland will likely have to be on the move in any Denver deal.
Hyland is a pesky defender that can shoot, which will immediately make him someone that can provide a convincing facsimile of VanVleet’s skillset if he is the one who gets moved at the deadline.
Michael Porter Jr. on Bones Hyland: "If it doesn't work out here, I know he's going to be a star. So I know we're going to be looking back like, 'Dang.'"
— Harrison Wind (@HarrisonWind) February 8, 2023
If Toronto is prioritizing young players on controllable contracts in these trade talks, very few will be able to give them a bigger short-term punch than Hyland. With his best basketball still to come, Toronto will be able to milk several high-end years out of the former VCU star.