Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal

Whether the Raptors are interested in this deal depends on the validity of recent rumors surrounding Anunoby.

Some reports have suggested that Anunoby covets a higher-usage role. It’s possible that he sees the writing on the wall following the emergence of Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes in 2021-22. In all likelihood, Anunoby won’t find a featured role in this offense.

If that’s true, and Anunoby is dissatisfied with that reality, the Raptors have an incentive to move him. In that event, they could hardly ask for better value than they’re getting here.

After all, a first-round pick and two swaps is a sizeable return. This deal allows the Raptors to rebuild around Barnes properly.

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They might not want to take that route if Anonoby is content as a 3-and-D wing. If he truly wants more, they might be better off letting him find that opportunity elsewhere.

Is Sacramento the right place for him to do so?