Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal
Remember we said the Raptors would walk two timelines with this trade? Let us elaborate.
Obviously, their main incentive here is land Williams and draft capital. If the Raptors are moving SIakam, it’s because they’re choosing to build around the similar Scottie Barnes. When healthy, Williams is an elite 3-and-D wing who doesn’t need the ball – he’s a more intuitive partner for Barnes.
On the other hand, the Raptors could use a starting center. Vucevic, as a limited defender, may not be the one they envision for the future. Still, in the present, he serves to get this young core accustomed to playing with a conventional big. In other words, he’s a placeholder.
Finally, the Raptors get two first-round picks here. In a sense, they’re transitioning into more of a rebuild. With that said, given the potential Barnes flashed in his rookie season, it may not last long.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors & Chicago Bulls Updates
In 2-3 years, he could be as productive as Siakam, and the Raptors will have a better supporting cast thanks to this trade.
If all goes well, that will take them to a place where they’re only on one timeline – and it’s a contending one.
