NBA Rumors: The Raptors put 3 starters on the market to go for a star

The Toronto Raptors are one of the big surprises of the NBA season. With a record of 24-17, they hold the fourth spot in the East and rank seventh overall in defensive rating. Their performance is well above expectations prior to the season. However, for their general manager, Bobby Webster, that is not sufficient. According to insider Jake Fischer, the Toronto offices are considering a significant roster overhaul, even exploring the market for three out of their five starters.

As per Fischer, the Raptors are assessing what they could get in exchange for Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, and Jakob Poeltl, aiming to use these assets to pursue a superstar. It has long been known that Toronto has seriously evaluated attempting a trade for Anthony Davis, an option that remains on the table despite the center being sidelined with a hand ligament injury, along with a history of physical issues in recent seasons.

Toronto's offer to Dallas for Davis would involve Barrett and either Quickley or Poeltl. This constant buzz of trades is not without consequences. While the Raptors are having a noteworthy season, continually hearing that the franchise is willing to move three key pieces could potentially impact team chemistry and the performance of the players involved.

In terms of contracts, Quickley still has three more years after this season, with an annual salary of $32.5 million. Poeltl signed a three-year, $84 million extension—$28 million per season—that doesn't kick in until 2027 and extends through the 2029-30 season. Barrett, on the other hand, only has one more guaranteed year with a salary of $29.6 million.

Ja Morant Enters the Picture

From the Mavericks' perspective, who might seek salary relief if they were to trade Davis—earning $58 million next season with a player option for $62 million the following year—Toronto's offer would not be particularly enticing. Accepting it would mean taking on around $60 million annually between Quickley and Poeltl for several years.

Alongside Anthony Davis, Ja Morant's name is also linked to the Raptors. For a trade involving Memphis' point guard to be feasible, Toronto would have to include at least one of the same players on the trading block, as Morant is making $39.4 million this season and will average over $43 million annually over the next two years.

Regarding Davis, the medical risk is evident. Since arriving in Dallas in the surprising trade for Luka Doncic, he has only played 29 games in the last twelve months, missing around 55 matchups. Over the past five seasons, he has exceeded 56 games played only once.

With Toronto performing well above expectations, the big question is whether Webster will choose to stick with this project or instead make a bold move in the market for a game-changing superstar.