Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal
Granted, the Raptors may decline this deal. At 6-5, they may prefer to stay the course.
Alternatively, they’re not so good that they shouldn’t entertain a future-focused package. Besides, this deal could actually make them better in the present.
The Raptors could especially use Jones. As constructed, they don’t have a traditional center in his mold. Jones isn’t a starting-caliber player, but the Raptors may not need one. If they’re content with their Siakam-at-the-5 arrangements, they could still use a rim-running, rim-protecting big.
Meanwhile, Walker IV could replace Trent Jr. to an extent, and Nunn should be an upgrade over Malachi Flynn as the team’s backup point guard.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Gary Trent Jr, Toronto Raptors & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
All told, this deal gives the Raptors some depth and floor balance – and most importantly, a pick swap from a team that’s probably built to implode.
Is Trent Jr. worth so much to the Lakers?