NBA Trade Rumors: Bruce Brown, Chris Boucher Are Most Likely the Raptors To Be Traded

The Toronto Raptors are caught in a "trade storm" rumor ahead of the NBA trade deadline as Bruce Brown and Chris Boucher are now seen as the likely candidates to go to new teams.

According to insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, Brown is seen as the "Most Likely Raptor To Be Traded," while the team appears to be putting on a show for Boucher in recent games.

Bruce Brown: A Contender's Asset

NBA Trade Rumors: Bruce Brown, Chris Boucher Are Most Likely

Acquired from the Indiana Pacers in a trade for Pascal Siakam, Bruce Brown has been a bumpy ride for the Toronto Raptors. The 28-year-old guard, who is going to hit free agency this summer, had knee surgery and has played in just eight games, where he averages only 6.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists.

Although Brown struggled in his first season, his consistent contributions to title contenders make him an enticing bet for teams looking for depth – at least based on his performance with the Denver Nuggets last season as they won the 2022-23 title.

For Toronto, trading Bruce Brown now could help them accrue assets instead of losing him for nothing in free agency.

Chris Boucher: The Bench Star Everyone's Talking About

Chris Boucher is turning heads this season, delivering his best performances since the 2020-21 campaign. The 6'9" forward has been averaging 10.5 points and 4.5 rebounds off the bench, showcasing his scoring and rebounding abilities.

In a recent four-game stretch, Boucher has averaged 16.3 points per game with a true shooting percentage of 95.9 percent. He's a valuable bench asset for teams looking to add some depth, as he has been consistent in his contributions and energy.

Raptors Eye Future Over Playoffs

Currently sitting at a dismal 10-31 record, the Raptors are far from playoff contention and seem focused on rebuilding. Trading Brown and Boucher would bring in much-needed draft picks or young talent to help secure the team's long-term future, Bleacher Report writes.

With Brown's championship experience and Boucher's burgeoning stock, Toronto has two really interesting trade pieces that could really bring some bright returns. Maybe teams looking for a deep playoff run will find a way to get these guys, and there's a pretty good chance for Toronto to be retooling.

Meanwhile, in another NBA trade rumor, the Los Angeles Lakers might be interested in finding a defensive partner with Dorian Finney-Smith. More importantly, Rob Pelinka could reach out to Herb Jones since he's one of the top perimeter defenders in the league.