The Toronto Raptors could be among the teams to make a big splash at the NBA Draft. The Raptors have been rumored to be shopping young guard OG Anunoby ahead of the draft, with various teams linked to the 24-year-old. Now, Toronto has made clear what they are seeking in any trade for Anunoby. According to Bleacher Report's Jake Fischer, the Raptors would only consider moving Anunoby in exchange for “an elite center.”
Consistently heard Toronto’s only appetite to trade OG Anunoby is for an elite center. Raptors remain linked to Rudy Gobert, called on Jarrett Allen back in February, per sources.
We’ll talk all offseason chatter w/ @SethPartnow tomorrow @getcallin 4ET: https://t.co/2eaZmN60v6
— Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) June 23, 2022
While Anunoby remains a possible trade target on Thursday night, and beyond, the Raptors have their sights set on landing a top-quality center in any deal. Fischer mentions links between the Raptors and Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert. The Jazz are rumored to be open to trading Gobert this offseason and there's a possibility he could be moved at the draft, and the Raptors could make sense as a fit.
Pairing a talented big man alongside the likes of Scottie Barnes, Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam, along with the rest of Toronto's core, could be exactly what the team needs to go on a run back to the NBA Finals. Anunoby, while talented, has only featured in 91 games over the past two seasons, and hasn't played in more than 71 since his rookie season.
He is coming off a solid season for the Raptors, during which he averaged 17.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. With various teams interested in bringing him on board, it doesn't seem likely a deal gets done unless someone tempts Toronto with a talented big man, which certainly decreases the likelihood of Anunoby being dealt to the Blazers.
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