Raptors Showing Real Interest in Anthony Davis, But Trade Still Far From Certain
As trade chatter starts to heat up around the league, Anthony Davis’ name has quietly crept into the conversation-and one team in the East seems to be paying closer attention than the rest. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Toronto Raptors have “definitely registered interest” in Davis, making them the most serious of the three Eastern Conference teams linked to the Mavericks’ big man.
That said, it’s important to note: interest doesn’t equal imminent action.
While the Raptors are keeping tabs on Davis, the situation remains fluid. The Atlanta Hawks have reportedly taken a more exploratory approach, while any buzz around the Detroit Pistons appears to be overblown. As Michael Scotto of HoopsHype put it, Detroit doesn’t seem eager to make a major in-season move, and Atlanta’s curiosity hasn’t yet turned into anything concrete.
Toronto, meanwhile, is weighing multiple options. Davis is on their radar, yes-but so are other potential targets.
The Mavericks, for their part, aren’t rushing into anything. They’re still evaluating how Davis fits alongside Cooper Flagg, how his health holds up, and whether he’s truly moving the needle in terms of wins with the current roster.
Another name that’s caught Toronto’s attention? Domantas Sabonis.
Scotto confirmed earlier reporting from Jake Fischer that the Raptors expressed interest in the Kings’ All-Star center over the summer. It was exploratory, but real.
While there’s no indication that trade talks between the two teams are active right now, there’s an intriguing wrinkle here: Sacramento GM Scott Perry was the one who drafted RJ Barrett back when he was with the Knicks-and he’s reportedly still a fan. That connection could matter if Toronto circles back on Sabonis.
The Raptors have been quietly gauging Barrett’s market value, and if a Sabonis deal ever gains traction, Barrett could be a key piece.
Toronto’s Broader Trade Landscape
The Raptors aren’t just poking around the big names. They’ve also explored a variety of other options, including a potential backcourt shake-up.
Over the summer, Toronto reportedly checked in on LaMelo Ball’s availability. There’s no indication that those talks went anywhere, and there’s nothing to suggest Charlotte is actively shopping their franchise point guard.
But it’s a sign that the Raptors are at least open to swinging big if the opportunity presents itself. If a deal for a high-salary point guard ever materializes, Immanuel Quickley would be a logical piece heading out.
There’s also been some low-key dialogue with the Suns. According to Scotto, Toronto and Phoenix have discussed a framework that would send wing Ochai Agbaji and second-round compensation to the Suns in exchange for center Nick Richards.
For Toronto, it’s a chance to bolster their frontcourt depth while potentially ducking under the tax line. For Phoenix, it would mean adding a young wing and a much-needed draft asset-but it would also increase their tax bill, and it’s unclear whether Agbaji fits what the Suns are really looking for.
Word is, Phoenix is more focused on upgrading at power forward.
Ingram Settling In North of the Border
Brandon Ingram’s transition to Toronto has been smooth-and intentional. Speaking with Scotto, the newly acquired forward opened up about his mindset heading into free agency and why he was comfortable signing a three-year, $120 million extension with the Raptors before even suiting up for the team.
“I told myself whoever wanted me, that I was going to be content in being there,” Ingram said. “Around the [2025] trade deadline, I heard two or three teams [had interest], and I picked the best choice where I knew I was going to get a fresh start.”
It’s clear Ingram sees Toronto as more than just a stopover. He’s embracing the opportunity to build something alongside rising star Scottie Barnes and help shape the Raptors’ next chapter.
Final Thoughts
The Raptors are in a fascinating position-part buyer, part evaluator. They’re not afraid to explore big swings, whether it’s Davis, Sabonis, or even LaMelo Ball. But they’re also being methodical, weighing fit, health, and long-term impact before making any moves.
As the trade deadline inches closer, Toronto is a team to watch. They’ve got the assets, they’ve got the cap flexibility, and they’ve got a front office willing to get creative. Whether that leads to a blockbuster or a more subtle roster tweak remains to be seen-but make no mistake, the Raptors are very much in the mix.