Toronto has no shortage of talent on its current roster, but that doesn't mean they couldn't use some upgrades across the board. The most obvious issue right now is finding a competent backup center to step in when Jakob Poeltl is absent and alongside the aging vet who's been battling injuries.
In other areas of the Raptors roster, Toronto has been getting strong contributions from their tenacious backup point guard, Jamal Shead, as of late. Although he’s been struggling to find his shot, currently shooting just 36.3 percent from the field, he consistently serves as a reliable floor general when he's on the court.
Meanwhile, the starting point guard Immanuel Quickley has faced criticism throughout the season, especially as he initially struggled to find his shooting rhythm. Fortunately, Quickley was able to pick up his play in November, but this month has been another stretch of inconsistency. Additionally, many fans and analysts don’t view Quickley as the traditional point guard needed to elevate this team.
If the Raptors are considering upgrades, acquiring a more polished, passing-oriented point guard to lead the offense is definitely worth exploring: Enter LaMelo Ball.
LaMelo Ball has reportedly been on the Raptors' trade radar
In the latest NBA trade intel piece by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, he provides an update on Charlotte Hornets' 24-year-old star, who appears to be losing his position as the core pillar. Rookie Kon Knueppel has embarked on a strong introductory campaign and seems to be on track to take that mantle away from Ball.
That being said, Scotto mentions that Charlotte is still very interested to see where Ball and another injury-plagued Hornets star, Brandon Miller, along with Knueppel and Miles Bridges, can take them in the Eastern Conference pecking order when everyone is healthy and active for extended periods.
Now, on the subject of whether Ball were to be shopped in trade discussions, Scotto mentions the Toronto Raptors as a team that has expressed some interest in his availability in the past. Scotto writes:
"Speaking of trade interest, the Toronto Raptors checked in on the availability of Ball over the summer, league sources told HoopsHype. Ironically, Ball ran out of the tunnel with the Raptors before their game against the Hornets in Toronto on December 5th. Later in the game, he injured his ankle and has been out since. "Michael Scotto, Dec. 18, 2025
Last month, when Ball's name was being mentioned in hypothetical trade scenarios, I considered the idea of him in Raptors threads. I ultimately concluded that it would probably be best for Toronto to stand pat with their assets and avoid the tempting allure, despite Ball's diverse skill set upside and on-paper talent upgrade.
Clearly, the rumor mill is buzzing (funny, we're talking about the Hornets here) once again with LaMelo Ball chatter. Whether I or others in Raptors Nation think he would be a good fit or not, it’s important to note that Toronto has reportedly checked in on his availability. This indicates some interest, but we will still have to wait and see if there is any real substance to these reports.