2. Pascal Siakam
Siakam is in the final year of his contract and on the trade block. Fans have heard the rumors and even a reported offer (subscription required) from the Hawks for the two-time All-Star. Siakam wants to stay in Toronto, but the Raptors have to decide if their desire is to extend or trade the 6’9 forward.
Trade appears more likely at this stage. The Raptors lost Fred VanVleet in free agency and have missed the playoffs in two of the last three years. They are not contenders, so it could be time to rebuild. Toronto re-signed Jakob Poeltl and added Dennis Schroder, but expect them to seriously consider selling if there are not massive improvements before the deadline.
New Sixers head coach Nick Nurse coached Siakam in Toronto and helped him blossom into a two-time All-Star. Could they reunite in Philadelphia? The Raptors are going to set a high asking price, but the 76ers could land a superstar if they are willing to part with Tyrese Maxey. It depends on how badly they want Siakam.
Tobias Harris would have to be included to match the salary, but this could be the bold swap Daryl Morey needs to keep Joel Embiid in town. It may be a cleaner fit to acquire a point guard, but having a star big-man duo could be the best Philadelphia can do before the deadline.