NBA Trade Rumors: Predicting how 7 early-season trade whispers will end

NBA Trade Rumor No. 3: Raptors to pursue Zach LaVine

With as much talent as the Toronto Raptors have on their roster, it’s actually somewhat of a mystery how they’re 6-7 on the season. The bottom line is that this team is not very good right now. With Zach LaVine possibly hitting the open market, it’s only natural to pencil in the Raptors as a team that could have some interest.

Even though it’s been reported as such, on no level does it make sense for the middling Raptors to make such a move. With the uncertainty surrounding Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby and their respective futures, I think the Raptors’ interest in LaVine is nothing more than mid-season smoke.

Prediction: I think the Raptors’ front office benefits from the reputation of being in every conversation. That’s kind of how the Miami Heat’s front office has made their mark with their reputation. But if the Raptors didn’t want to pull the trigger for Damian Lillard, I highly doubt that will change for LaVine. Masai Ujiri may make a phone call or two but I can’t imagine adding LaVine makes any sense for the Raptors.