NBA stars find themselves in trade rumors for all sorts of reasons. When they request a trade, they put themselves in that situation. With that said, that’s not always the reason we’re talking about potentially trading a player.
Sometimes, a situation simply presents itself. Look at the Toronto Raptors. Pascal Siakam is a fixture in trade rumors lately. The Raptors had a disappointing 2022-23 season, and they should probably build around the similar Scottie Barnes. A trade would simply make sense here.
It could make sense for the Minnesota Timberwolves to trade Karl-Anthony Towns as well. He didn’t appear to be a good fit alongside fellow big man Rudy Gobert last season. The Wolves won’t trade Gobert – they wouldn’t be able to get nearly the same value that they surrendered to acquire him in the first place. Could they trade Towns for Siakam instead?
The Trade Proposal
Toronto Raptors Receive: F/C Karl-Anthony Towns
Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: F/C Pascal Siakam
Of course, there are a lot of considerations to take into account when trading a star player. Teams don’t do it lightly. When that star player doesn’t want to be traded, that’s definitely a factor to consider. Having a star that wants to be on your team has its benefits.
That seems to be the case with Pascal Siakam. It’s been reported that he wouldn’t sign an extension with any team that he was moved to. If he’s loyal to the Raptors, they should consider that. Should it keep them from trading Siakam in the first place? Not necessarily.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Minnesota Timberwolves & Toronto Raptors Updates
The Raptors need to do what’s right for them. That doesn’t mean they have to trade Siakam, either. The Raptors could decide to see how their current roster performs under a new head coach. That may be an appealing option. Is acquiring Towns a better option?
Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal
It depends on whether the Raptors think Towns will work on this roster. So, let’s talk about Towns. Who is he as an NBA player?
Well, he’s one of the best offensive big men in the NBA. That’s undeniable. Towns is an elite floor spacer who’s got a solid enough handle to attack closeouts. Unfortunately, he struggles on the defensive end of the floor. That’s why the Timberwolves acquired Gobert in the first place.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Minnesota Timberwolves & Toronto Raptors Updates
Perhaps that was an error. It may be that Towns’ defensive limitations would be more easily mitigated by a platoon of quality defensive wings. If so, the Raptors are built to support him. Barnes and O.G. Anunoby are both strong defensive wings who can guard multiple positions. If the Raptors think they could elevate their performance by pairing them with Towns, they should like this deal. Should the Timberwolves?
Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal
There are reasons why the Timberwolves wouldn’t love this deal. Siakam is a few years older than Towns. If this doesn’t work, they’ll be left with Anthony Edwards, an aging roster, and very little draft capital in a few years.
On the other hand, this should work. Siakam is a perfect fit for this roster. Offensively, his playmaking will complement Edwards. Siakam may be overtaxed as a first option in Toronto, but he’s an ideal second option. The dynamic between these two superstars ought to keep the Wolves offense afloat.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Minnesota Timberwolves & Toronto Raptors Updates
By contrast, this swap could lead the Wolves to an elite defense. Gobert, Towns, and Jaden McDaniels would be among the best defensive frontcourts in the NBA. The Wolves could undergo a much-needed identity shift following this move. All they’ve got to do is trade a superstar.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
