As the Toronto Raptors look to build a contending team over the coming years, it will benefit them to evaluate the teams currently at the top of the mountain and see how those teams built out their rosters.
One common theme is that winning teams tend to find undervalued players on other teams and either trade for or sign them. That is a theme among all of the Conference Finalists still playing right now. The Minnesota Timberwolves scooped Nickeil Alexander-Walker up as a trade throw-in, as did the Indiana Pacers with Aaron Nesmith.
The Dallas Mavericks bought low on P.J. Washington and signed Dante Exum and Derrick Jones Jr. to minuscule contracts. The Boston Celtics arguably bought very low on Kristaps Porzingis, also adding a contributor like Luke Kornet for nothing.
Can the Raptors learn that lesson and find some undervalued gems on the trade market? Let's look at three candidates around the league who boast a lot of upside but could be acquired for cheaper than their value on the trade market.
No. 3: Jae'Sean Tate, F, Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets have built a team with proven veterans surrounded by multiple young options at every position, and as a result look like a team poised to continue moving up the standings. At the same time, they cannot hold onto everyone as they continue to make additions and increase the playing time for their up-and-coming prospects. That may mean a buy-low opportunity will open up for Jae'Sean Tate.
The 6'4" forward is a tough defender, comfortable stepping into the lineup and defending four positions. He also averaged just 15.9 minutes per game this season as players like Dillon Brooks, Cam Whitmore, Tari Eason and Amen Thompson all joined the rotation. There isn't room in the long-term plan for Tate, and Houston will almost certainly entertain trade offers for him.
The Raptors can use versatile defenders to fill in around their core, and Tate has been a difference-maker when he is on the court in a wide variety of lineups. If he can be had for a single second-round pick Toronto should consider pulling the trigger.