NBA Rumors - Toronto Raptors are very keen on moving into the Top 3 of the 2023 NBA Draft
The Toronto Raptors, who own the 13th pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, could reportedly move several spots up to the top three picks. Toronto could be looking at a major rebuild with the firing of Nick Nurse and the free agency of former All-Star guard Fred Van Vleet.
Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer had this to say about a possible bold move by the Raptors to go higher in the draft:
“Sources say the Raptors and Wizards have also explored trades to move up into the top three.”
The Raptors have explored trades to move up into the top three, per @KevinOConnorNBA https://t.co/c6NHjTn2Xt
The Raptors would likely have the chance to draft either Brandon Miller of Alabama or G League Ignite’s Scoot Henderson. While the Charlotte Hornets seem intent on getting Miller, the Portland Trail Blazers might be swayed to trade for Henderson.
Portland has Damian Lillard and Anfernee Simons in the lineup, which will make Henderson’s presence somewhat questionable. The Trail Blazers could also trade Simons and still draft Henderson.
The Toronto Raptors could put a package together that’s centered around two-time All-Star Pascal Siakam. “Spicy P” is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2023-24 season. He is only 29 years old and will still have several more prime years ahead of him.
Scoot Henderson looking elite. 🔥🔥
(via @swishcultures_)
https://t.co/emlk0FQbfU
Siakam and the 13th pick of the draft might be enough to get the deal done. The Raptors could also potentially include a 2025 first-round pick if they are desperate to get Miller or Henderson.
The Toronto Raptors, with new coach Darko Rajakovic, could build around a top-three pick and former Rookie of the Year winner Scottie Barnes.
The Toronto Raptors are looking at other potential big moves throughout the roster
Toronto Raptors President of Basketball Operations Masai Ujiri has been known to make some bold moves. He sanctioned the trade for Kawhi Leonard at the expense of longtime fan-favorite DeMar DeRozan.
Leonard’s one-year stay was the biggest reason the Raptors have one NBA championship to be proud of.
The team could make a few roster moves in the offseason. Besides Pascal Siakam, the Raptors will have to decide on the future of Gary Trent Jr. and O.G. Anunoby.
Trent Jr. has until June 20 to opt into his player option. He becomes an unrestricted free agent if he declines the 2023-24 season. A sign-and-trade deal for Trent Jr. could also be on the cards.
REPORT: The Pelicans are “one of the teams” that have shown interest in OG Anunoby and Gary Trent Jr.
(via @ScoopB) https://t.co/4OB5mhkBLk
Anunoby, on the other hand, also has a player option after next season. The elite defender has reportedly been on the radar of several teams who are looking to become title contenders.
Trading both for future draft picks could signal a new start for the team. They still have Scottie Barnes and whoever they can get with the 13th pick this year or a top-three pick if they can move up.
Also read: Who is Toronto Raptors' new head coach, Darko Rajakovic? Taking a look at his career