Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal 

Initially, we almost swapped Capela for Trent Jr. straight up here. We looked at it, and something didn’t feel right. 

It was the age gap. Trent Jr. is 23, while Capela is 28. Meanwhile, the Raptors are not established enough as contenders to give up a young player in exchange for a more seasoned veteran. That’s why we decided to include Johnson. 

It just so happens that he’s exactly the type of player the Raptors seem to like – in theory, at least. Johnson didn’t get many opportunities as a rookie in 2021-22, but he appears to be the type of big wing with playmaking abilities that the Raptors covet. With proper development, he has every opportunity to be a quality player in this league. 

Still, Capela is the main draw for the Raptors here. His game isn’t flashy, but he could be exactly what this team needs. He’s a rim-running, rim-protecting big who doesn’t need the ball to impact the game.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Clint Capela, Atlanta Hawks & Toronto Raptors Updates

Acquiring him doesn’t preclude the Raptors from running Siakam at the 5: it merely gives them options. 

What kind of options does Trent Jr. give the Hawks?