Goran Dragic of the Toronto Raptors has had little playing time throughout the season, averaging just 18 minutes, 8.0 points, and 1.8 assists per contest. Further, the Raptors recently announced that Dragic would take some time away from the team, as general manager Bobby Webster stated,
Via Brad Mills of Sports Illustrated:
“He will continue to work out and stay in shape during his time away. There is no definite timeline for this process, and we will advise updates as appropriate. Goran has the backing of Masai, Nick and the entire organization, and we wish him nothing but the best.”
The rumor mills have been turning however, as Dragic's tame away has escalated the speculation surrounding a Dragic's presence on the trade block. Rumors have circulated and pointed to a possible trade between the Raptors and the Dallas Mavericks, potentially linking Dragic together with his young countryman in Luka Doncic. How such a trade would work however is still a mystery, as Dragic's contract comes into play in the negotiations between the Raptors and any potential trading partner. As Marc Stein of the The Stein Line states:
“Toronto continues to cling to hope that it can still find a trade home for Dragić’s $19.4 million expiring contract between now and the Feb. 10 trade deadline. Dragić would undoubtedly love the chance to become a free agent and pick his next team at age 35, but a buyout becomes more palatable for him financially closer to (or maybe even after) the trade deadline.”
Wherever Dragic ends up, one can expect Nick Nurse and company to try to get the best bang for the buck as possible. Besides, all this might just be Dragic actually taking a break, and eventually returning to his veteran role on the Raptors.
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