Toronto Raptors Receive: F/C John Collins, G/F Kevin Huerter, 2022 First-Round Pick (No. 16 – ATL)

Atlanta Hawks Receive: F/C Pascal Siakam

In asking why either side would accept this deal, we first have to ask a broader question. Why would the Toronto Raptors trade Pascal Siakam at all?

Well, Scottie Barnes just won Rookie of the Year. His potential is sky-high, and he happens to be a very similar player to Siakam. If the Raptors see a redundancy between the two, they may be interested in diversifying their attack.

This trade accomplishes that goal. Collins is a more impactful off-ball player than Siakam. He can roll or pop out of pick-and-roll sets effectively. His vertical makes him a superior lob threat, and he’s a more reliable floor spacer.

Meanwhile, Kevin Huerter gives the Raptors a big guard who spaces the floor and defends. Finally, they get a first-round pick as compensation for giving up the best player in this deal.

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Atlanta Hawks Widely Expected To Trade John Collins; Full Details On Market

Nonetheless, this may not be a perfect deal for the Raptors. It doesn’t address their most pressing position of need at center, and they may prefer more draft capital. In either case, the next deal has them covered.