Toronto Raptors: A trade proposal for Anthony Davis

The blockbuster trade

As we’ve analyzed every team’s needs and side of the story, let’s take a look at a possible trade scenario these teams could discuss, were the Raptors to open negotiations with the Pelicans:

The Raptors acquire Anthony Davis (duh!) as well as Darius Miller, who could prove to be a rather valuable scoring piece to have off the bench. It should also be noted that Jonas Valanciunas is out with an injury and is ineligible for a trade.

The Raptors would probably prefer to keep Serge Ibaka‘s defense compared to JV’s offense, but that is certainly a small price to pay when deciding whether to acquire Anthony Davis or not.

In exchange, the Pelicans get the perfect pieces to build around for the future. Pascal Siakam is the favorite for the Most Improved Player award, which could be the starting step in a very long and successful career.

Ibaka is a long-time veteran with a career average of 2.2 blocks per game, replacing the defensive void that will be left from the Brow’s departure.

Last but not least, in recent years, the Pelicans have struggled a ton regarding their wing players, as these two spots were always up for grabs. OG Anunoby has showcased his worth as a great rotation piece to have on a contending team, rendering him a great candidate for the starting small forward spot for the Pelicans.

If these teams were able to agree upon this trade, it would be a turning point for both franchises. The Pelicans would enter rebuilding mode, already with some great young players in hand and the Raptors would form a super-team, set to compete for at least one championship, and possibly more beyond this season.