The Toronto Raptors are preparing for significant changes following a disappointing 2023-24 season, finishing 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 25-57 record. After trading Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby, it’s evident that the team’s best years are momentarily behind them. However, the Raptors are not standing still as they look ahead to the 2024-25 season.
Raptors’ $23 Million Bruce Brown Trade Plan
The Raptors are considering a notable move involving Bruce Brown. The organization plans to exercise Brown’s $23 million player option and then trade him, as reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
“Toronto is expected to exercise Bruce Brown’s $23 million team option and use him as a trade chip entering the offseason, league sources told HoopsHype.”
Brown, who averaged 10.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists after joining from the Indiana Pacers in the Siakam trade, doesn’t align with the Raptors’ future plans. Although Toronto isn’t heading into a
complete rebuild, they are clearly aiming to retool with more draft picks and younger talent. Brown becomes an unrestricted free agent after the 2024-25 season, making him a valuable trade asset.
In a potential trade, the Raptors could acquire draft picks, which would be beneficial for their long-term strategy. Brown, a former Denver Nuggets guard, is highly regarded across the league, especially after his pivotal role in the Nuggets’ championship run. Trading him could allow Brown to join a contender and return to the playoffs sooner rather than later.
Scottie Barnes Extension on the Horizon
With Siakam and Anunoby gone, Scottie Barnes has emerged as the franchise cornerstone for Toronto. Barnes, who will play on a $10.1 million player option next season before becoming a restricted free agent, is a priority for the Raptors. According to Scotto, the team is looking to extend their former first-round pick this summer:
“The Raptors will also look to extend All-Star forward Scottie Barnes this summer, league sources told HoopsHype.”
Barnes’ importance to the Raptors is undeniable. He has been a crucial player since his rookie season, earning Rookie of the Year honors. In the past season, Barnes averaged 19.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, six assists, and 1.2 steals, all career highs, including a 34% shooting percentage from three-point range.
Barnes is undoubtedly a key building block for the Raptors, who have missed the playoffs for two consecutive seasons, a rare occurrence for the franchise. Strengthening the roster this offseason is a priority as the Raptors aim to become contenders in the Eastern Conference once again. However, this rebuilding process may take longer than hoped.
Draft Prospects: Keeping an Eye on Zach Edey
Per Scotto, the Raptors are monitoring Purdue’s big man Zach Edey in the 2024 NBA Draft, especially if he falls to their pick. Edey, a Toronto native, could be a significant addition to the team. However, he is expected to be selected before the Raptors have a chance to draft him.
The upcoming months will be crucial for the franchise, and the roster could look quite different by Opening Night. The Raptors are gearing up for a busy offseason, making strategic moves to reposition themselves for future success.
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