The ongoing trade discussions surrounding Pascal Siakam and the Toronto Raptors could potentially be resolved if an extension agreement is reached. However, Masai Ujiri, the Raptors’ executive, currently does not seem inclined towards such an arrangement, keeping the trade talks alive.
Despite Siakam’s positive performance alongside RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, and some potential suitors like the Sacramento Kings fading away, rumors linking Toronto to top teams persist. The Dallas Mavericks are prominently mentioned in the Siakam trade speculation, with the idea that pairing him with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving could significantly boost their offensive capabilities, potentially compensating for any defensive shortcomings. The question remains whether Siakam could be the key piece to propel the Mavericks towards a championship.
Bleacher Report explored several trade scenarios involving Siakam, including one that would see him joining forces with Doncic and Irving in Dallas. However, the proposed return for Toronto appears to be underwhelming, lacking an effective replacement for Siakam and failing to enhance the team’s bench depth.
Grade the Trade: B/R sends Toronto Raptors’ Pascal Siakam to Dallas Mavericks
Siakam, despite being on an expiring contract, presents challenges in finding a satisfactory trade deal for Toronto, as the Mavericks may have limitations in terms of available rotation players to include in the trade. While shooter Tim Hardaway Jr. is a valuable asset, he may not be a game-changer, and creating a trade scenario without Siakam heading to Toronto seems unrealistic.
Players like Williams, Holmes, Green, and Hardy, included in the potential trade, raise concerns due to various factors such as performance, contract situations, and shooting efficiency. The draft picks offered may seem appealing, but receiving only one first-round pick for a player of Siakam’s caliber, especially for a team likely to contend for a championship, could be viewed as an inadequate return.
Comparisons to a previous trade involving OG Anunoby, which yielded two starters and a pick, suggest that Toronto should aim for a more substantial return in a Siakam trade. The proposed trade haul lacks the long-term potential that the Raptors are likely seeking, even considering Siakam’s expiring contract. The expectation is that Toronto should be able to secure multiple rotation players and a first-round pick for a player of Siakam’s caliber, even in the final year of his contract.
