Derrick White – San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs are rebuilding right now and while they are in a worse position compared to that of the Toronto Raptors, we still do not know what to expect from this team in terms of the direction they are heading in. The Spurs have no identity right now and while they do have a bunch of young talents, it is hard not to imagine that they will look to go after a big name sooner or later.
One of the things that have always made the Spurs a unique organization is their ability to build within, which they have continued doing with guys like Dejounte Murray, Derrick White, Keldon Johnson, and others, but this team is far from being anything special right now.
Thaddeus Young is a veteran they will look to leverage for more young talents/future value, but they could also look to see what they can get for someone like Derrick White this season. Now in his 5th season with the Spurs, White has grown a lot into a key combo-guard since entering the league, but his overall upside next to Dejounte Murray is in question.
So far through 17 games this season, White is averaging 11.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1.2 steals, and is shooting just 38.6% from the floor, 28.7% from three-point range.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: This Raptors-Warriors Trade Is Focused On Pascal Siakam
As a result of his struggles, Derrick White has oftentimes been taken out of games earlier than expected for guys like Lonnie Walker IV, Bryn Forbes, and Devin Vassell, all of which are having decent starts to the year.
If White’s struggles continue, it is not far-fetched to imagine that the Spurs will gauge interest in him at the trade deadline, especially if they can capitalize on his value being high right now. Nobody really knows what to expect from the Raptors in terms of potential moves, but Derrick White could be someone they show interest in.
Toronto’s backcourt could use a boost since Fred VanVleet is their only key ball-handler and White could certainly provide some depth at either point guard or shooting guard for the Raptors.
Plus, the Raptors are going to be looking to trade veteran Goran Dragic for value, so maybe there is a multi-team deal here that would result in the Raptors trading Dragic to a third team and receiving Derrick White from the Spurs.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: This Raptors-Warriors Trade Is Focused On Pascal Siakam
Whatever the case may be, White would certainly be a solid addition for this Raptors team, even if he is on a long-term contract. Already being over the tax line for the year, the Toronto Raptors do not have a lot of leeway in terms of making big deals, but they could move some contracts around to acquire Derrick White from the Spurs.
Verdict: Pursue
