The Toronto Raptors have one of the hotter trade assets in the NBA on their roster, as Pascal Siakam has been photoshopped into 29 other team’s jerseys during the last few weeks. Given his continually improving skillset and expiring contract, the idea of acquiring him for cheap might appeal to some teams.
The Raptors have been sniffing around the Atlanta Hawks in recent weeks, as they have been as connected to a Siakam trade as much, if not more so, than any other team. Another contender, this time in the Western Conference, is watching these proceedings with a great deal of interest as they eye a solid starting center.
According to Marc Stein, the Dallas Mavericks are “rooting” for the Hawks and Raptors to consummate a trade centered around Siakam. Dallas thinks that they could have a shot at acquiring center Clint Capela if the Hawks end up making Siakam one of their frontcourt starters.
This Capela trade could materialize via either Dallas and Atlanta dealing directly or the Mavs talking to the Raptors if Capela is part of the return package for Siakam. While he could be a big help for the Dallas rotation, the Raptors don’t seem to be close to a potential Siakam deal.
More Raptors news
- The Raptors released wing Joe Wieskamp, who struggled in Summer League competition prior to being let go. A former second-round pick in 2021, Wieskamp’s much-hyped 3-point shot never seemed to really make the trip up north. The Raptors now have one open roster spot.
- Raptors rookie Gradey Dick has agreed to a shoe deal with Adidas, joining Lakers rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino in joining the Three Stripes before their NBA journey begins. Dick joining Adidas would make him a unique player on the Raptors’ roster, as Siakam and Scottie Barnes both have longer contracts with Nike.
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NBA news
- The Phoenix Suns traded Cam Payne, a 2025 second-round pick, and cash to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for a 2024 second-round pick. The Suns traded Payne, who averaged 9.8 points and 4.2 assists per game in his four seasons with Phoenix, to free up a roster spot for big man Bol Bol.
- The Cleveland Cavaliers were named champions of NBA Summer League play, taking down competition MVP Cam Whitmore and the Houston Rockets in the championship. Isaiah Mobley, brother of star forward Evan Mobley, was named MVP of the championship game.