Why this trade makes sense for the Toronto Raptors

Toronto needs a reliable center if they are to be anything special in the playoffs this year, which is why they need to add a guy like Tristan Thompson. They do not need a high-level frontcourt player, nor a center that can score every position down the court, but someone who can be a monster rebounder for them, which is what Thompson is. 

The Raptors currently rank last in the league in rebounding and their best rebounding option is Pascal Siakam, who has been out the last few weeks due to health and safety protocols. Going out and acquiring Tristan Thompson not only gives the Raptors the rebounding threat they need in the frontcourt, but an experienced veteran who can aid them in their potential playoff push. 

There is no doubt that the Raptors have a championship-caliber core, but they have a huge void to fill in their frontcourt without Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka. This is why Toronto has expressed interest in Tristan Thompson and may be willing to part ways with some young talents to acquire him. 

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Losing Aron Baynes does not really impact the Raptors right now and neither does Terence Davis, other than the fact that they lose a ton of future value in him. Toronto has been known over the years for being one of the best “developmental” teams in the league, as year-after-year they have a new player who has a breakout season. 

Terence Davis definitely has the potential to grow into a really solid shooting guard in this league and has been putting together a solid year in his limited minutes. They would have to give up a solid amount of future value in trading him to the Celtics, but if the Raptors want to maximize their chances of contending in the East this year, they will have to go out and get a player like Thompson at the expense of a player like Davis.