Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal 

On the other hand, the Raptors are in a similar position as the Blazers. They want to be competitive, but they’re not. 

It’s not easy to definitely say what a team in this situation ought to do. Like the Blazers, the Raptors have an in-prime star. Pascal Siakam still contributes at a fringe All-NBA level. 

The Raptors could try to split the difference here too. They could make this deal and keep Siakam.

In that event, they’re adding the sixth overall pick in the upcoming draft – that should be a young player with star potential. 

NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Anfernee Simons, Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic & Portland Trail Blazers Updates

Alternatively, they could look to move Siakam elsewhere. In that event, they’d be building a bright future around Scottie Barnes and whoever they select with the sixth pick. 

Should the Magic turn their attention to the present?