The Toronto Raptors are once again showing up in trade chatter - and this time, the names being floated are anything but small. According to recent reports, the Raptors have been linked to two of the league’s more dynamic young point guards: LaMelo Ball of the Charlotte Hornets and Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks.
Let’s start with Ball. The Raptors reportedly explored the idea of acquiring him over the summer, and while nothing materialized then, the interest speaks volumes.
At just 24 years old, Ball still fits the timeline of a team looking to retool rather than rebuild from scratch. He’s a high-usage, high-ceiling playmaker who brings flash, creativity, and size at the point guard spot.
If Toronto is looking for a long-term offensive engine to pair with Scottie Barnes, Ball would be a fascinating fit - assuming they’re willing to pay the price.
Then there’s Trae Young. The Hawks have had an up-and-down season, and while Young has missed time due to injury, Atlanta discovered something interesting in his absence: Jalen Johnson can handle a bigger role than expected.
That doesn’t mean Young is expendable - far from it. He remains one of the league’s elite passers and a proven offensive weapon.
But it does open the door for the Hawks to at least listen to offers, especially from teams in need of a lead guard.
Toronto fits that bill. Right now, the Raptors are running a committee at point guard with Immanuel Quickley and rookie Jamal Shead, while Scottie Barnes continues to shoulder a heavy playmaking load.
It’s a serviceable setup, but it lacks the kind of gravity that a player like Ball or Young brings. Both would represent a clear upgrade in terms of offensive firepower and creation, though each comes with a hefty contract and, likely, a steep trade cost.
Still, the Raptors have never been shy about bold moves. This is the same organization that swung for Kawhi Leonard and came away with a championship. They’ve shown a willingness to zig when the rest of the league zags - and that includes being active in the trade market even when the team is in transition.
Also worth noting: Toronto’s name has been tied to Domantas Sabonis in trade speculation. Whether that’s a smoke signal or something more remains to be seen, but it’s clear the Raptors are casting a wide net.
Bottom line? Toronto is a team to watch as the trade deadline approaches. Whether it’s Ball, Young, Sabonis, or someone else entirely, the Raptors are keeping their options open - and they might just be gearing up for another big swing.