Portland Trail Blazers: OG Anunoby
Anunoby’s name has been the subject of many trade rumors this summer. He was linked to the Blazers leading up to the draft as well. Whether his discontent with the Raptors is more fact or fiction is anyone’s guess. With that said, if he is angling for a change of scenary, his 3-and-D skill set is perfect for a Blazers team looking to bolster their perimeter defense.
Sacramento Kings: OG Anunoby
We had to think before we typed out Anunoby’s name again. Something about listing the same player twice in a row feels wrong.
Chalk it up to an alphabetical coincidence. The Kings will be vying to break their NBA-record 16-year playoff drought this season. Their offense will be focused around Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox. Both stars lack in the 3 and D departments, so the addition of Anunoby would be perfect for this core.
San Antonio Spurs: Gordon Hayward
With all of the talk about Dejounte Murray in trade rumors, the best option for the San Antonio Spurs would be to add draft picks.
The 2023 NBA Draft class is going to be a highly talented one. Without a legitimate franchise player to build around, the Spurs would be best suited to position themselves to land a top prospect from that group. Taking on Gordon Hayward’s bad contract to add even more draft picks would be a great option.
Toronto Raptors: Obi Toppin
Prior to the 2022 draft, we’d likely have named a center here. With that said, the Raptors selected Christian Koloko n the second round. We like his upside. Since this team is trying to build an unconventional rotation full of defensive, ball-handling wings, we figured we’d link them to one. Toppin would be a perfect addition to Toronto.
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Utah Jazz: Pascal Siakam
On the other hand, if the Raptors wanted to switch gears, the Jazz should look to accommodate them.
Siakam isn’t likely to be available this summer. If he is, he’d be the perfect player for this roster. They need to improve their perimeter defense and find an offensive co-star for Donovan Mitchell. Siakam checks both boxes. The Jazz should at least dangle Rudy Gobert and a first-round pick, either directly to the Raptors or in a three-team deal.
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Washington Wizards: Malcolm Brogdon
Many observers would suggest that the Wizards should rebuild around Bradley Beal. There’s merit in that position, but they appear likely to extend the star guard. If they intend on being competitive in 2022-23, he’ll need a backcourt mate. Brogdon, a high-end playmaker who spaces the floor and defends, feels like a perfect choice.
