The Toronto Raptors have been experiencing a mild playoff drought. Although the team has talented players, they haven't produced enough success to secure a playoff berth.
Last season spelled more disappointment for the franchise, as the Raptors finished 11th in the East, just one spot outside of the Play-In tournament. This marked their third consecutive season without a playoff appearance.
While the organization has lacked a distinct direction in the last few seasons, it could be on the verge of turning things around. With Scottie Barnes as the face of the franchise, Toronto could look to develop into a playoff team.
To facilitate this development, we present a trade idea that would effectively act as a catalyst in transforming them into a playoff team right away. Let's take a look at the proposal.
Proposed Trade Details
Toronto Raptors Receive: Lauri Markkanen, Coby White
Utah Jazz Receive: Immanuel Quickley, 2026 second-round pick (LAL)
Chicago Bulls Receive: RJ Barrett, Gradey Dick, Jevon Carter, Dalen Terry, 2028 first-round pick
This trade package involves a lot of significant moving parts. With each variable influencing the team in some way, we examine the impact this trade has on each team involved.
The Raptors Emerge As A Playoff Team
This trade would reunite former Chicago Bulls teammates Lauri Markkanen and Coby White on the Raptors. With the addition of two extremely talented young players, the Raptors would effectively transform into a powerhouse in the East.
Markkanen's arrival would be particularly significant in this regard. Toronto features a particularly lengthy rotation, especially with players like Ingram and Barnes on the floor. By adding the Finnish forward, the Raptors add length, size, and skill, which would bolster their frontcourt strength significantly.
The Jazz forward has consistently been one of Utah's best players. But his limited availability in the last two seasons due to injury concerns has impacted his rhythm. Still, he has shown sparks of brilliance, having recorded an average of 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds per game on shooting splits of 42.3% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range last season.
The 28-year-old has proven himself to be a star-caliber player. With one All-Star selection to his name, Markkanen has showcased a versatile offensive skill set, one that would complement both Barnes and Poeltl in the frontcourt.
White would effectively be replacing Immanuel Quickley in the backcourt. This could be a benefit for the Raptors.
At the price point, White is an upgrade on Quickley, who is expected to have a cap hit of $32.5 million next season. White, who is in the final year of his contract, is due to earn $12.8 million.
Even at a discounted price, the 25-year-old guard has displayed greater productivity. He notched an average of 20.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, while shooting 45.3% from the field and 37.0% from beyond the arc.
White's scoring and playmaking could be an advantage for the Raptors. It would also free up Barnes from his playmaking duties, allowing him to redirect his attention towards other aspects of the game.
The Raptors gain some talented players, along with some flexibility in this deal. With the added depth potentially lending itself to greater performance, Toronto could improve significantly with added depth.
The Bulls Acquire A New Starting Point Guard
This deal doesn't have much impact on the Bulls in the immediate future, especially in light of their current offseason challenges. But in due time, this could help the franchise form its new core.
The addition of the 2026 second-round pick helps Chicago add to its draft capital. Acquiring Quickley, however, could prove to be more impactful.
After parting ways with Coby White, the Bulls will need a new starting point guard to complement Josh Giddey in the backcourt. In this regard, Quickley could prove to be a great piece.
At 26 years old, the Raptors guard is still a young player on the verge of entering his prime. In an environment like Chicago, he could develop into a significant contributor, especially considering the freedom he will have if he plays the same role as White.
In the 2024-25 season, he recorded an average of 16.2 points and 6.1 assists per game. With some capable young players on his team, Quickley could employ his playmaking and scoring skills to help improve Chicago's offense.
The Bulls have been an interesting team to follow this offseason. With a talented young forward in Matas Buzelis, Chicago could be a playoff team in the future. But surrounding him with the right talent will be essential. This trade could be a step in the right direction.
The Jazz Cultivate Roster Depth
The Utah Jazz have been an unpredictable team this offseason. Although their direction remains unclear, it seems they intend to stockpile draft picks, expiring contracts, and young talent. This trade fulfills this purpose by checking all the boxes.
The most noteworthy addition in this scenario is RJ Barrett. The Raptors guard has shown star-caliber potential, and at 25 years old, still has room to grow alongside a core of young players.
Barrett possesses a multifaceted skill set, allowing him to contribute in numerous ways. With an average of 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, he could be a great addition for the Jazz, especially when paired with Keyonte George and Ace Bailey.
This trade also brings a young sharpshooter, Gradey Dick, over to the Jazz. The 21-year-old has showcased a lot of upside on the offensive end, with his shooting being particularly noteworthy.
Last season, the Raptors forward notched an average of 14.4 points and 3.6 rebounds on shooting splits of 41.0% from the field and 35.0% from three-point range. In many ways, the Jazz could view him as the replacement for Jordan Clarkson.
Aside from these two players, the Jazz would also acquire Jevon Carter and Dalen Terry, both of whom are on expiring contracts. Given the limited influence they had on the Bulls, it is unlikely that they would play a more significant role on the Jazz roster.
This trade has a very low impact on Utah's current rebuild. It doesn't transform them into a playoff team, but it could help them remain intriguing to watch, especially as Bailey's growth becomes a primary storyline.
The Raptors Could Be A Playoff Team This Season
The Toronto Raptors are served by incredibly talented players, especially in their starting rotation. With the trio of Ingram, Barrett, and Barnes leading the team, Toronto has the potential to be a top-10 side in the East.
The upcoming season presents an opportunity like no other. With several top teams expected to fall off, primarily due to injuries, the Raptors could look to climb up the ladder.
However, the Raptors will need to make some moves to become a top-6 team in the East. In this regard, addressing depth concerns and the finer aspects of the players in the starting rotation could be essential.
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