Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal
If the Raptors did move Siakam this year, it would signal that they don’t see him and reigning Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes as a viable long-term pairing.
Whether they are is up for debate. The NBA is becoming increasingly positionless, but it still feels like both of these guys are best suited to play the 4.
Meanwhile, they’re also both optimized with the ball in their hands. The Raptors could continue experimenting with Siakam at the 5, but if they want to shift their thinking to a long-term vision, this deal could make sense.
Onkongwu, in some respects, is the primary target here. He’s been buried behind Clint Capella in Atlanta for some time, but he’s flashed the potential to develop into one of the best defensive bigs in the NBA. Meanwhile, the Raptors certainly have a vacancy for such a player.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors & Atlanta Hawks Updates
On the other hand, Collins is a cleaner fit alongside Barnes than Siakam as well. He’s not as good of an overall player, but he’s a better shooter and a better lob threat. That makes him more suited for a supporting role alongside a ball-handler.
Some will suggest that the Raptors should be getting more draft capital here. Unfortunately, the Hawks don’t have more to give – that’s why they’re paying a premium with quality young players. Collins and Onkongwu both allow the Raptors to plan for the future – if that’s what they’d prefer to do, of course.
