The Toronto Raptors have once again found themselves in the middle of Pascal Siakam trade rumors, as the Atlanta Hawks were once again mentioned as a team that has been trying to secure the services of one of the best offensive power forwards in the game.
Toronto could end this entire charade by choosing to extend him and confirm his status as a long-term cornerstone, but the Raptors have been hesitant to do so. With Scottie Barnes still in the process of emerging as a star, and both OG Anunoby and Gary Trent Jr. both possible free agents, paying Siakam may not be a no-doubt move.
Teams are starting to circle the Raptors, as they are already positioning themselves for either a Siakam trade or a chance to swipe him away in free agency when they get the chance. Toronto needs to be wary of all the competition out there for his services in the next few months.
These three teams could all have designs on adding Siakam to the mix. Given their combination of potential cap space, assets to compensate the Raptors in a sign-and-trade, and the organizational desire to win now, Siakam might be interested in joining one of these new environments.
3 teams who could steal Pascal Siakam from the Toronto Raptors.
3. Oklahoma City Thunder
If the Raptors decide to go with a sign-and-trade, Oklahoma City could have as many picks at their disposal as any team in the league and a desire to start winning following years of rebuilding. The Thunder could send some picks and quality young players over to Toronto to secure Siakam’s services.
The Thunder are building a very Raptors-esque positionless lineup that features two bigger guards in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey and a gangly 7-1 star in Chet Holmgren. The Thunder have the flexibility to give Siakam the long-term contract he is seeking.
The Toronto Raptors must watch the Thunder’s interest in Pascal Siakam.
Going to OKC might be a solid outcome for the Raptors, as they could get something in return via a sign-and-trade. A player like Lu Dort could come the other way, and the Thunder might be more willing to part with future first-round picks due to the absolute surplus they have right now.
Who would have thought that VanVleet would be wearing Houston Rockets red and white just a year ago at this time? The desire for Sam Presti to kick things into overdrive in a weak conference might be enough to get the Thunder’s engines properly revved up.