The Toronto Raptors could pivot to a trade pursuit of Kevin Durant if Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t reach the open market, reports Jake Fischer. The Raptors could realistically assemble a trade package for Durant as opposed to the type of outlay required to win the bidding for Antetokounmpo.
The Raptors previously pursued Durant during the 2022 trade deadline upon his trade request from the Brooklyn Nets. Durant was beginning his four-year extension during that offseason and he is now entering the final season of the contract.
Toronto acquired Brandon Ingram at the trade deadline and signed him to a contract extension. The Raptors’ front office is believed to be under pressure to take a step towards being competitive again in the Eastern Conference. Multiple reporters have indicated that the Raptors are amongst the more active teams during the beginning of this transaction cycle.
The Raptors traded away Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby ahead of the 2024 trade deadline and their impending free agencies as they attempted to reset their roster around Scottie Barnes.