For the third consecutive year and the fourth time in the last five seasons, the Toronto Raptors missed the playoffs in 2025. However, they had a five-win increase compared to the 2023-24 campaign, and things are looking bright for the Raptors.
Ahead of February's trade deadline, the Raptors were active and made a notable move by acquiring former All-Star Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans. Furthermore, they eventually signed him to a three-year, $120 million contract. Though Ingram has yet to suit up for Toronto, there is a lot of intrigue about his presence.
As the team aims to get back to the playoffs, some more moves could be in line for the Raptors. Recently, a major update regarding a potential trade for Toronto surfaced that could change their outlook.
Toronto Raptors Vice-Chairman and Team President Masai Ujiri.
Toronto Raptors Vice-Chairman and Team President Masai Ujiri.
John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
The Raptors have been linked to many top players in the league in trade rumors, including Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant. However, another name to keep an eye on is Sacramento Kings big man Domantas Sabonis.
According to Bovada Sportsbook, the Raptors (+500) have high odds of acquiring Sabonis, whose future in Sacramento is uncertain. However, it now seems like this is not a likely move for Toronto (h/t The Drive Guys with Kevin Gleason and Kyle Draper).
On Monday, Doug Smith of the Toronto Star reported that he has "never heard [Sabonis'] name linked to Toronto." Additionally, Smith says that the Raptors are "pretty happy with Jakob Poeltl."
"I’ve never heard his name in a conversation with anybody involved with the Raptors for a year and a half," Smith said about Domantas Sabonis. "They’re pretty happy with Jakob Poeltl with two years left in his deal at 20 million a year. Sabonis is a great player. No question about it. But I’ve never heard his name linked to Toronto."
After parts of four seasons with the Kings, Sabonis could be on the move this summer as the team may look to go in a different direction. However, as it stands, it seems like the Oregon native is not headed to Toronto.