4. Raptors get young star four
Toronto just traded a star power forward in the final year of his contract. Could they acquire another one this summer? The Raptors will shop around. It appears they have their wings and center locked in meaning Toronto likely wants a forward or point guard to round out their roster.
Lauri Markkanen was in trade rumors before the deadline but stayed with the Jazz. Nobody expected him to become a star, but the seven-footer did in Salt Lake City. He is just entering his prime and eager to get his first playoff experience. The Raptors could use another elite scorer, but Markkanen won’t come cheap.
Markkanen is an elite bucket getter but does not solve the Raptors' defensive woes. They are 19th in offensive rating this season and 22nd on defense. Toronto needs a stopper or two, especially with OG Anunoby in New York.
Keeping Lauri Markkanen likely means giving him a max contract. He is not going to be happy making $18 million per year if he plays like a star. There is no guarantee Markkanen wants to play in Toronto long-term, and the Raptors cannot even think about giving up three first-round draft picks for a one-year rental.
The Knicks are hungry for talent and searching for better fits around Jalen Brunson. Could they make a deal with the Raptors involving Bruce Brown?