The Toronto Raptors have been gauging the trade value of RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley in recent weeks as the franchise faces mounting pressure to end a three-year playoff drought, numerous sources told ESPN. New governor Edward Rogers is ready to take full control of the franchise later this year, creating a sense of urgency within the organization.
ESPN’s Shams Charania has reported Toronto’s interest in the Dallas Mavericks’ Anthony Davis and the Memphis Grizzlies’ Ja Morant. Although other teams could have reservations about taking on long-term money, the Raptors would be swapping out their own long-term contracts to acquire those players, removing a potential impediment to a deal.
Barrett signed a four-year, $107 million deal with the New York Knicks in 2022 and will be on a $29.6 million expiring contract in 2026-27. Quickley signed a five-year, $162.5 million contract with the Raptors in 2024 and is due $97.5 million combined for 2026-27, 2027-28 and 2028-29.
Barrett is averaging 19.6 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 30.4 minutes. Quickley is averaging 16.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 6.1 assists in 32.5 minutes.
Toronto owns all its first- and second-round picks for the next seven years. The franchise that has been an infrequent taxpayer is currently about $1 million into the luxury tax.
“Toronto will have to incentivize real offers with draft capital,” one Eastern Conference executive said. “They’re going to have to work to avoid the second apron next year with their current roster.”
Rival executives note that having all that long-term money to move could dissuade potential trade partners. The Raptors would need to include draft picks to make deals more appealing to other franchises willing to absorb their contracts.
The Raptors rank 12th in the NBA in Net Rating with the 19th-ranked offense and fifth-ranked defense. Despite the solid defensive numbers, Toronto has struggled to generate consistent scoring and remains outside the playoff picture.
Barrett and Quickley have been key contributors for Toronto this season. The franchise is exploring whether moving one or both players could help accelerate their return to contention or provide assets for a more significant roster overhaul.
The franchise’s willingness to discuss trades involving rotation players signals a potential shift in strategy after years of middling results. Toronto has not reached the postseason since 2022 and is searching for the right combination to return to playoff basketball.