NBA Trade Rumors: Big names recently added to block before 2018 deadline

Jonas Valanciunas, C, Toronto Raptors

Speaking of Gasol, there have already been a number of teams floated as potential landing spots. Although there’s no guarantee he’s traded at all, it’s becoming clear a number of franchises would be willing to make it work from a financial standpoint to acquire the Grizzlies’ big man.

The Toronto Raptors are one of the contenders mentioned in this conversation. Considered one of the East’s top clubs at this moment, it makes sense for them to be interested in adding another star to the mix. On top of that, they have plenty of assets to help get a deal done for someone as talented as Gasol.

Here’s some insight from Forbes’ Mitch Lawrence:

"“Industry sources tell me that the Raptors are open to moving center Jonas Valanciunas and have young players the Griz might be interested in pursuing, including Jakob Poeltl and Lucas Nogueira. Gasol would be a marked upgrade for a ‘now’ team that needs to get to a Finals with core stars DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry.”"

Would the Grizzlies be interested in Valanciunas? It’s difficult say. He makes about more than $7 million less per year than Gasol, and is only 25 years old. Although we’ve seen glimpses of the talent that made him the No. 5 overall pick back in 2011, he’s been wildly inconsistent and is constantly battling injuries.

Still, if the Raptors were to offer Valanciunas and a package of prospects and pick, I could see Memphis biting. Either way, it appears the Lithuanian big man could soon be on the move.