The NBA Trade Deadline is nearing and teams are starting to move. A very active team that has been making deals has been the Toronto Raptors. They have just let go of OG Anunoby and now their whole 2019 championship core is gone. Pascal Siakam is headed to the Indiana Pacers to boost Tyrese Haliburton's chances of winning. Meanwhile, Scottie Barnes' squad gets a package around Bruce Brown. But, someone got caught in the middle and he goes by the name of Christian Koloko.

The Raptors are letting go of Christian Koloko. They needed a roster spot to open up for Bruce Brown and he became the casualty, per Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Koloko is currently nursing an illness. But, he has been able to produce serviceable numbers for the Raptors through 58 games. As a rookie, he was able to notch 3.1 points nearly three rebounds, and a block per contest. He was given an average of 14 minutes in the Raptors system. There is still a lot to be desired in his production but more exposure and development may make him one of the better backup big men in the league.

What does this do to the Raptors?

Pascal Siakam in Pacers uniform next to Jordan Nwora, Bruce Brown and Kira Lewis Jr. in Raptors uniforms

The team is now fully committed to building around Scottie Barnes after letting go of Pascal Siakam. Darko Rajakovic noted in his rant that they will have a star in the Raptors system and this looks to be the pivot that they needed. They are able to surround him with better veteran and championship-experienced talent. Not to mention, Brown gives off a massive boost in all facets of the game. He was able to average 12.1 points but also dropped three assists along with Tyrese Haliburton's Pacers. Young playmakers like Immanuel Quickley and Barnes could use his help in those regards.

Moreover, they can start rolling with some momentum after the NBA Trade Deadline. The Raptors currently only have 16 wins for the season but it is never too late for a turnaround. Brown's added presence on defense allows Barnes and other players to have some load taken off their shoulders. If not, they could always send him off for a great deal. This roster spot was a crucial move for them to thrive. Koloko may have parted but his impact will be remembered.