4 reasons Raptors could contend for a championship with Damian Lillard

PORTLAND, OREGON - JANUARY 28: Damian Lillard #0 of the Portland Trail Blazers shakes hands with the bench during the third quarter against the Toronto Raptors at the Moda Center on January 28, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. The Toronto Raptors won 123-105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images) /

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Toronto Raptors, Scottie Barnes, Pascal Siakam

Toronto Raptors, Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Scottie Barnes and Pascal Siakam

The latest rumors have confirmed that Barnes and Siakam, the former of whom is a prized young asset and the latter of whom is an impending free agent, are not going to be involved in the Lillard trade sweepstakes. This will keep a potential championship core intact.

Siakam would become one of the best No. 2 scoring options in the league, as he has an All-NBA and All-Star nomination to his name in the last two seasons. Rather than having to overcome a failing offensive system, Siakam can operate as the Robin to Lillard’s Batman.

Scottie Barnes and Pascal Siakam will dominate with the Toronto Raptors.

While Barnes wouldn’t become the primary option that many expected he would be this season, he could get the chance to work on his offensive game as a tertiary place once more. He won’t get defensive attention, and Lillard is a skilled enough passer to get him the rock.

If Siakam signs an extension and Lillard decides to warm up to Toronto, the three-headed hydra of the heliocentric star guard in Dame, Pascal in the low block, and Barnes growing into a star gives Toronto a sustainable winner for years to come.

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