3. Toronto Raptors
Leading up to the trade deadline, the one thing that the Toronto Raptors were in the market for was a center. They checked in on Jakob Poeltl of the San Antonio Spurs, who began his career with the Raptors after they selected him 9th overall in the 2016 NBA Draft.
The Raptors ended up with another Spur in Thaddeus Young at the deadline. Young is a solid veteran, but the team is likely in the market for a center this offseason again. Given the success the team has had, they could look to make a big swing.
Deandre Ayton would make for a logical target. He fits as a long-term piece with the younger Raptors in place but also brings experience for a team looking to make noise in the postseason. Completing a sign-and-trade could be on the table and Toronto has some pieces that could appeal to the Suns.
Getting a player such as Pascal Siakam or OG Anunoby back in a deal for Ayton is better than losing him for zero compensation in free agency.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Deandre Ayton Proving To Be Worth Max Deal For Phoenix Suns
For the Raptors, adding Ayton into the middle of a lineup that includes Fred VanVleet, Gary Trent Jr. and Scottie Barnes gives Toronto a high ceiling next season and in the future.
