The Toronto Raptors are toeing a delicate line as they hover just above the NBA’s luxury tax threshold - a spot no team wants to linger in unless it’s chasing a title. And while the Raptors aren’t exactly in championship contention this season, they do have a potential move on the table that could help them sidestep the tax while also tweaking their roster in a meaningful way.
According to league sources, Toronto is exploring the idea of trading wing Ochai Agbaji, a former first-round pick, as a means to get under the tax line. The Raptors have reportedly had exploratory talks with the Phoenix Suns that center around a swap involving Agbaji and second-round draft compensation in exchange for big man Nick Richards.
Now, on the surface, this kind of move is primarily about the books - shedding salary to avoid the financial penalties that come with crossing the tax line. But there’s more to it than just cap gymnastics. A deal like this could also help the Raptors balance their roster in a subtle but useful way.
Agbaji, while still a promising young player, has struggled to carve out a consistent role in Toronto’s rotation. When the team is fully healthy, his minutes are limited.
Right now, with RJ Barrett sidelined, Agbaji is seeing a bit more floor time, but it’s clear he’s on the fringe of the core rotation. That makes him a logical trade chip - someone who still has value but isn’t central to the Raptors’ long-term plans.
On the flip side, Richards would bring something different to the table. With Jakob Poeltl battling injuries this season, Toronto’s center rotation has been in flux. Sandro Mamukelashvili has filled in admirably, but Richards offers a different skill set - a more traditional rim-protecting, rebound-hunting presence who could give head coach Darko Rajaković another option in the frontcourt.
This wouldn’t be a blockbuster by any means. But in a season where the Raptors are trying to recalibrate - not rebuild, but retool - these kinds of smaller moves can have ripple effects.
Getting under the tax is a win in itself, especially for a team in transition. And if you can do that while also adding a potentially useful piece to your rotation?
That’s a savvy bit of business.
There’s still a lot of season left, and the Raptors’ front office will have more decisions to make as the trade deadline approaches. But if this deal comes together, it could be a smart step forward - both financially and on the floor.