How the DeMarcus Cousins Trade Could Impact the Toronto Raptors
Other Rumours Emerge
The fun part about these kind of blockbuster trades is that analysts start revealing other rumours they’ve heard from sources. Of course, there’s no way to tell how accurate these rumours are, but they do give us an idea of what’s going on around the league.
Source w/reasons Pels got Boogie: Cs (too focussed on getting Butler), Orl (could've had him, balked) & Phx (Sac didn't want BKnight).
— Ric Bucher (@RicBucher) February 20, 2017
From the Raptors’ perspective, the Celtics reportedly being “all-in” on Jimmy Butler is compelling. Butler is the kind of player that could put the Celtics “over the top” and not only give them a chance to compete with the Cavs, but also separate themselves from the Raptors.
Boston apparently made an offer for Ibaka, but they reportedly didn’t want to part ways with Terry Rozier, so it would be interesting to see what they’re willing to give up for Butler. The unprotected Brooklyn Nets first-round pick, which could be the No. 1 pick this year, is the Celtics primary asset and it could allow them to maintain some of their rotational players like Marcus Smart, Jaylen Brown or Jae Crowder. If Boston could acquire Butler and maintain their rotation, well, that’s a problem for the Raptors.