With star point guard Fred VanVleet out and Dennis Schroder in, the Toronto Raptors’ starting lineup will look much different next season. But FVV may not be the only All-Star who departs the team this offseason as Toronto continues to reshape the roster ahead of head coach Darko Rajakovic’s first season.
We’ve heard trade rumors regarding players like VanVleet, Pascal Siakam, and even OG Anunoby for several seasons now. But the Raptors have always held their cornerstones in high regard, unwilling to part with them without a grand offer.
Now that VanVleet has moved on in free agency, could the Raptors be more inclined to part with another valued member of their core?
According to Michael Grange, Pascal Siakam’s trade market is ‘heating up,’ with multiple teams registering interest in the two-time All-NBA big. Grange also adds that the Atlanta Hawks are one team to keep an eye on. Especially considering their starting power forward, John Collins, was recently dealt out of town.
The Raptors have been unwilling to part with Siakam in years past. Perhaps now that they’re under new leadership, along with VanVleet’s departure, they may be more amenable to negotiating again.
Siakam is still just 29 years old, is a former NBA champion, and helps make an impact on both ends of the floor. As one of the better bigs in basketball, you can be sure plenty of teams will have interest.