Kofi Inkoom
One NBA writer is proposing a significant trade between the Brooklyn Nets and the Toronto Raptors, involving Pascal Siakam.
Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report has outlined a trade scenario where the Raptors would receive Ben Simmons, Cam Thomas, a 2027 first-round pick (top-eight protected, via PHI), and a 2029 first-round pick (via DAL) from the Nets.
“In his recent NBA trade analysis, Zach Buckley stated that if Mikal Bridges truly emerges as a star for the Nets, as he appeared to be after joining Brooklyn in a trade, the team should focus on building around him. While having strong supporting players, Bridges is currently the only player at an elite level or close to it. Acquiring Pascal Siakam in a major trade could shift that dynamic,” wrote Buckley.
“While not classified as a top-tier superstar, the 29-year-old has an impressive record as a two-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA awardee. He also played a significant role as the second-best player on a championship-winning team. While the capacity of either him or Bridges to single-handedly lead a top-tier offense is open to discussion, their combined efforts could potentially meet the statistical expectations often associated with a primary and secondary offensive duo,”
Over the past three months, multiple NBA teams have expressed interest in acquiring Pascal Siakam through trade. However, the trade market has been somewhat subdued because it’s clear that Siakam would not agree to an extension with a team that trades for him. Siakam has the option to sign for 30 percent of the salary cap either through an extension now or as a free agent next offseason with the Raptors or any other team.
READ ALSO : Pascal Siakam Contract Extension Discussion
The Raptors have the opportunity to offer Siakam a maximum contract extension spanning four years and at least $192 million. Despite this, there have been no significant discussions regarding an extension so far. Notably, Siakam himself has never made a request to be traded.
Siakam’s impressive performance includes averaging 24.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists during the last season for the Raptors. He achieved shooting percentages of 48.0% from the field, 32.4% from beyond the arc, and 77.4% from the free-throw line, establishing himself as one of the top forwards in the NBA.
Born in Douala, Siakam maintains career averages of 17.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in the NBA. He secured the NBA championship in 2019 and was honored with the Most Improved Player of the Year Award for the 2018-19 season.