After years of hesitation, the Toronto Raptors finally chose to trade small forward OG Anunoby. Numerous teams across the league have shown interest in acquiring the versatile 3-and-D player over the past few seasons.
The deal that ultimately caught the Raptors' attention involved a package from the New York Knicks. In this agreement, the Raptors sent Anunoby, point guard Malachi Flynn, and big man Precious Achiuwa to the Big Apple.
In exchange, Toronto received swingman RJ Barrett, shooting guard Immanuel Quickley, and a second-round draft pick.
Last season, Anunoby earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team and topped the league in steals. Additionally, he maintained an average of 16.8 points per game and shot 38.7% from beyond the arc.
The 26-year-old wing quickly made an impact in his first game as a New York Knick, scoring 17 points on 7-of-12 shooting, 3-of-6 from three-point range.
The British player added six rebounds, one assist, and one block as the Knicks claimed a 112-106 win against the Western Conference-leading Minnesota Timberwolves at the Madison Square Garden on New Year's Day.
Anunoby might be in the final year of his contract since the 2024-25 season includes a player option worth $19.9 million.
In the upcoming offseason, he can explore free agency, negotiate an extension with the Knicks, or opt for another season. He is set to make $18.6 million in the ongoing 2023-24 NBA season, per HoopsHype.
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Next Trade Toronto Must Make After OG Anunoby Deal With Knicks
With Anunoby out of the fold, the Raptors are one step closer to an all-out rebuild. One vital piece remains in their roster - Pascal Siakam.
The Raptors have yet to extend a contract extension offer to the two-time NBA All-Star, and it doesn't look like it's happening.
With the Raptors unlikely to contend for the championship anytime soon, it makes sense for them to trade their lone star for a windfall. However, teams might be hesitant to deal for the Cameroonian forward as he is in the final year of his current contract, and they do not want to give much assets for a potential six-month rental.
On the other hand, teams in absolute win-now mode, such as the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, or even the Los Angeles Lakers, might be willing to gamble on the 6-foot-8 player.
Despite the uncertainty of retaining Siakam beyond the current season, these teams could view him as a valuable asset to bolster their championship aspirations this year.
The immediate improvement in their chances to secure a championship could outweigh the potential short-term nature of Siakam's tenure with the team, and the Raptors should take advantage of this scenario.
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