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NBA Trades: 5 potential suitors for Rudy Gobert and the Utah Jazz

By Jake Weinbach

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 29: Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz reacts after getting called for a fifth foul against the Los Angeles Clippers during the second half at Crypto.com Arena on March 29, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 29: Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz reacts after getting called for a fifth foul against the Los Angeles Clippers during the second half at Crypto.com Arena on March 29, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /
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NBA Trades, Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz
TAMPA, FLORIDA – MARCH 19: Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball as Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz defends during the fourth quarter at Amalie Arena on March 19, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /

NBA Trades: 5 suitors for Rudy Gobert and the Utah Jazz – Toronto Raptors

Initially, the Toronto Raptors could emerge as a potential suitor for All-Star center Rudy Gobert. After returning to the playoffs this year before falling short to Philadelphia in six games of a first-round matchup, the Raptors could make an aggressive move to enhance the roster this offseason.

Toronto has an exciting core headlined by All-Star guard Fred VanVleet, All-NBA forward Pascal Siakam, and promising 20-year-old forward Scottie Barnes. Nevertheless, the missing piece for the Raptors has been a reliable center that can be efficient on both ends of the floor.

Current centers on head coach Nick Nurse’s squad include Khem Birch and Precious Achiuwa. The Raptors have reportedly been in the market for an established starting center dating back to 2020, so it wouldn’t be a shock at all to see them pursue Gobert this summer.

In terms of a potential deal, Toronto could entice Utah with a package centered around 24-year-old forward OG Anunoby, 23-year-old guard Gary Trent Jr., and at least one first-round pick. They have the assets and a variety of picks to become a serious suitor for Gobert.

The Toronto Raptors would form one of the most lethal defensive frontcourts in the league and strengthen their shot at another NBA title by acquiring Rudy Gobert from the Jazz. Given the Raptors’ desperate need at center, a stash of assets, and the desire to contend for a championship, trading for Gobert will be a realistic possibility this offseason.

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