Toronto Raptors Not Finished Yet as Trade Deadline Approaches

The Toronto Raptors may have already made the biggest move ahead of the trade deadline, but Masai Ujiri believes they can still do more.

You can make a strong argument that the Toronto Raptors have already won this year’s trade deadline, with the acquisition of Serge Ibaka. However, don’t expect Masai Ujiri to rest on his laurels.

Of course, any organization worth its salt should always be looking for ways to improve the roster. Regardless, it must be comforting for Raptors’ fans to know that in Ujiri, they have one of the most tireless workers in the NBA. (As he said at the end of last season, as long as he has a phone, he will continue to engage in trade talks.)

The question is, what do the Raptors have to offer, as they attempt to further boost the team? One possibility being floated around, was that they could look to move some of their young assets.

However, the Toronto Star‘s Doug Smith shot this theory down. As per league sources, Smith insists Toronto will not give away the likes of Delon Wright, Jakob Poeltl, Lucas Nogueira, Pascal Siakam, Norm Powell or Fred VanVleet.

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Even without their pool of prospects, the Raptors have assets to offer. As Smith points out, they can still package the expiring contract of Jared Sullinger and another first round draft pick.

In addition, Masai and company could look to move Cory Joseph, due in part to a logjam at the point guard position. (And as much as they may prefer to keep their young assets, you know they will consider including one or more, if the right offer comes along.)

In terms of what the Raptors are looking for, most of the talk has centred around versatility and a creative big small forward. Along those lines, we’ve already mentioned P.J. Tucker, who fits both needs.

The belief is that Tucker will attract attention with the trade deadline looming. However, this was apparently the case last year, and nothing materialized.

While we’re on the subject of former Raptors’ draft picks, another player at least worth considering, is Ed Davis. And while Tucker is arguably the better fit, one advantage Davis offers, is a contract which doesn’t expire until the end of next season.

Overall, it’s going to be an interesting few days between now and February 23rd. As history has taught us, anything is possible with Ujiri at the controls.

Next: Is P.J. Tucker Next on the Radar?

What do you realistically see the Raptors doing between now and the trade deadline? Is there anyone in particular you’d like them to target? Share your thoughts in the comments section.