Subscribe
Follow Us
The Toronto Raptors are one of the more intriguing teams in the NBA today. They don't quite have the talent yet to hang with the best teams on a consistent basis. However, the potential for this team is massive. With young prospects like Scottie Barnes, Precious Achiuwa alongside Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, and Fred VanVleet, they could be the perfect modern team.
Despite a hot streak earlier in the month, it's clear that this Raptors team is still rebuilding. Acquiring top-tier young talent should remain their priority. Luckily for them, one of the best young prospects who also fits their mold of their favorite players could fall into their laps for the right price: Zion Williamson.
Here are the various reasons why the Raptors should trade for Zion Williamson once the season ends.
2 reasons Raptors must trade for Zion Williamson this offseason
Top-tier player development
One of the best parts of the Raptors organization is their ability to develop their players into stars. Pascal Siakam was a late first-round pick who developed into a star and one-time All Star. Fred VanVleet's career trajectory is similar, though the guard wasn't drafted at all. Norman Powell, Delon Wright, Terence Davis. The list of young, virtually unknown players that thrive goes on for Nick Nurse.
Now, am I saying that Zion Williamson is on the same level as these Raptors players? No, absolutely not. Zion's full potential is unlimited. He can do nearly everything on the court. However, there are certain issues with Williamson has with his game, particularly on defense.
With the Raptors (a traditionally defensive-minded team), Zion has the opportunity to learn from one of the better defensive teams in the league. He can be the game-breaking two-way presence he was destined to be with the Raptors.
A clear upgrade
Many fans have an indescribable attachment to players of their favorite teams. Despite them having obvious flaws, they love their players so much. Raptors fans know this well: they had the same attachment to DeMar DeRozan before. He failed to deliver in the playoffs, but he was still a much-beloved player in the eyes of Raptors fans. Seeing him get traded for Kawhi Leonard in 2018 was shocking for many long-time followers of the team.
Now, Raptors fans shouldn't fall on this excuse again if Zion Williamson does become available come June. Yes, OG Anunoby has made major strides with the team, slowly but surely developing into a two-way guy. Pascal Siakam, for all his struggles, has played hard every single game. Fred VanVleet's “bet on yourself” mentality was adopted by the team.
However, at his absolute best, Williamson is miles ahead of these guys. His ability to dominate the paint with elite touch and insane athleticism is something no Raptors player right now can match. If one of the beloved members of the team becomes the price to pay for Zion, then so be it. Masai Ujiri has already proven he'll do anything to get his hands on great talent, even if the fans hate him for it.
Should Ujiri break the bank for Zion and offer Anunoby and Siakam straight up to the Pelicans? No, of course not. However, what I'm saying is that if there's a deal that doesn't compromise the Raptors' long-term goals while still acquiring one of the most hyped talents of the decade, they should pull the trigger, no matter the cost.
