Since last weekend’s trade of OG Anunoby, multiple reporters have stated that their league sources expect the Raptors to also move Pascal Siakam ahead of next month’s deadline. Josh Lewenberg of TSN.ca has heard similar rumblings, but one of his sources warned him to not “be so sure.” That source suggested that while some closure on the situation is expected, it may not come in the form of a trade.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if they offered an extension,” the source told Lewenberg.
Still, a trade is widely considered the more likely outcome for Siakam, prompting Lewenberg and Michael Grange of Sportsnet.ca to take another look at the 29-year-old’s potential market. Within his story, Lewenberg adds the Grizzlies to the list of teams that have shown some level of interest in the two-time All-Star.
Grange, meanwhile, explores the Kings and Warriors as possible trade partners in a Siakam deal, but says Sacramento – in addition to being unwilling to part with Keegan Murray – doesn’t seem enthusiastic about offering Siakam a maximum-salary contact to retain him beyond this season. With both of those factors in mind, it’s perhaps no surprise that the Kings’ pursuit of the star forward has reportedly stalled.
As for Golden State, Grange hears from multiple sources that the Dubs aren’t inclined to trade Jonathan Kuminga, since he’s viewed as a potential star who can help the team win in both the present and the future.
A report this week indicated that Kuminga had lost faith in head coach Steve Kerr, but the two men reportedly had a good conversation in the wake of that story, and the former lottery pick played a season-high 36 minutes on Friday. If Kuminga isn’t on the table, the Raptors may not have much interest in making a Siakam deal with the Warriors.
Here’s more from around the Atlantic:
- After a slow start to the season, Julius Randle has played his way into the All-Star conversation, which could be a financial boon for the Knicks forward. As Stefan Bondy of The New York Post writes, Randle will earn a bonus of almost $1.3MM if he’s named an All-Star. However, the 29-year-old said he’s not thinking about that at all and doesn’t know exactly how much that bonus is worth. “I knew I got a bonus, something north of a million. But you think I’m focusing on that? I’m making pretty good money,” said Randle, whose base salary this season is approximately $25.7MM.
- Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey is happy that his good friend Immanuel Quickley was traded from the Knicks to the Raptors, who will give his former Kentucky teammate “a little bit more of an opportunity,” as he tells Bondy of The New York Post. “He did a good job with the Knicks. But we know that’s Julius’ team, that’s (Jalen) Brunson’s team,” Maxey said. “This gives him opportunities to spread his wings, kind of fly a little bit. I think he’s done a great job so far.”
- Is Mikal Bridges‘ recent drop in production merely a slump, or is the increased attention that comes with being the focal point of the Nets‘ offense – as well as a long summer with Team USA – affecting him? Mark W. Sanchez of The New York Post explores that question, with input from head coach Jacque Vaughn.
Siakam to pacers or OKC.
You have to know he’s resigning if you’re trading for Siakam. So I’m sure this is playing a big part on this supposed trade. At 29 yrs old (30 in April) I definitely see him getting traded. To me I see Hawks as best fit. And could bring them back to contention. And It would have to be a three way for it to go down (Murray). So that’s where it gets interesting. Siakam is a big piece if he gets moved. We’ll see.
Hawks are afraid to include Jalen Johnson though. They think Trae will stay with a ton of young guys with no vets.
I’d be Interested in Okongwu. He’s physical and fits with Poeltl. He still has big upside imo.
Yea
For all the Quickley fans here. You had to know he was getting moved. It’s the best thing for him. As Maxey is telling you this, not me (for last yr). As a starter he has to get his ast up. And get better at game management. I’m sure Raptors resign him (they better). Cause Knicks were never going to pay him to be a backup. He wants what Randle is getting. The Quickley entourage never talks about that. Wish you the best IQ.
Its both for Mikal. It will be a couple of years before his FIBA teamates admit they was wored out when they came back.
All past summer have admitted it at some point.
.
If BKN decides to entertain moving Bridges at the deadline, then they likely get a huge haul for him. I don’t think teams will be too concerned with the shooting slump, even if it indicates he’s not a true #1 option. He’s always been an efficient shooter who can score or space the floor for others, a dominate defender who can cover 1-4, 27 years old and signed for 2 more seasons at team friendly numbers. Who cares if he’s a #1 option?
Don’t see Nets moving him. But they definitely would get a haul for him.
Knicks were giving up over 120 pts a gm. Since Mitch went down. And were 4-6, I believe. Since OG trade they have given up less than 101 pts a gm and are 4-0. Interesting huh …….
link to nbaanalysis.net
Raps better move Siakam sooner rather than later. He’s a UFA and one injury away from the team getting zilch in a trade. If he hd another year on his deal, no problem. Look at CP this weekend. Move him now Masai!