As the 2023-24 NBA season continues to draw closer, there are still quite a few moves that could be made to shake up the league. Obviously, the situation between the Philadelphia 76ers and superstar guard James Harden is the most-watched. With a trade still more than a likely outcome, could a team like the Toronto Raptors actually swoop in and pull off a blockbuster deal?
Many would argue that the Raptors stand no chance to acquire Harden from Philadelphia. One main reason for those thoughts would be that Toronto plays in the same division as the 76ers. However, the Raptors have a ton of assets that they could move to acquire a superstar like Harden.
Christopher Kline of FanSided took a look at three potential dark-horse trade suitors for Harden. On his list were the Minnesota Timberwolves, Orlando Magic, and the Raptors.
NBA RUMORS & STATS: James Harden, Philadephia 76ers & Toronto Raptors Updates
Here’s a bit of the reasoning that Kline gave to explain why the Raptors should consider trading for Harden and why they could be a perfect fit.
“The Raptors would have two bonafide top-30 players helming the offense. Harden would boost Toronto’s lowly 3-point numbers. He can place OG Anunoby and Scottie Barnes in more advantageous positions to score. Meanwhile, the Raptors have the length and defensive versatility to cover for Harden’s primary area of weakness.”
Granted, a trade for Harden would not be a cheap one. Pascal Siakam could be the big piece heading back to the 76ers to give Joel Embiid another star running mate. Or, the 76ers could push the Raptors to include a younger talent like OG Anunoby, who can both score and play top-notch defense.
NBA RUMORS & STATS: James Harden, Philadephia 76ers & Toronto Raptors Updates
No matter who the Raptors would have to give up to make this trade happen, they would still have a more than capable core. Siakam or Anunoby, Harden, and Scottie Barnes would be a very good three core players. Harden would again be able to be the go-to scorer, which would suit him well as it always has.
It would be interesting to see how James Harden fared returning to being the main offensive threat. He has played with the likes of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Embiid over the last few years. Harden has become an elite playmaker, but not as lethal of a scorer as he was during his time with the Houston Rockets.
All of that being said, this is pure speculation at this point in time. However, it’s certainly a destination that would make a lot of senes for Harden. It will be interesting to see how the situation with Philadelphia plays out in the coming weeks.
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