Raptors Expected to Target Keegan Murray in Trade With Kings
The Sacramento Kings have been involved with many trade rumors circulating since the start of the 2023-24 NBA season, but one team continues to find themselves in the conversation. The Toronto Raptors seem to be the most trade-hungry team in the league, as the Kings are constantly involved in rumors around Raptors duo Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby.
While many Kings fans drool over the idea of the Kings landing Anunoby, nothing has come to fruition yet. Anunoby, 26, is an emerging two-way talent who many believe would fit perfectly in Sacramento's lineup. The main concern is what the Raptors asking price for him might be.
Jake Fischer of Yahoo! Sports reports that the Raptors would likely expect Kings F Keegan Murray in return for Siakam or Anunoby. Regardless of how much the Kings may want the Raptors duo, giving up their rising star is unrealistic.
For Sacramento to do business with Toronto, the Raptors are expected to seek sweet-shooting Keegan Murray in exchange for either of their talented forwards. That would seem too rich a price for Sacramento as Kings officials have spoken of Murray as a critical swing piece in their lineup between bookends [Domantas] Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox — particularly as 31-year-old veteran Harrison Barnes has faded in terms of production this season
Murray, 23, is likely untouchable in trade talks for Sacramento, as they view their trio of Murray, Fox, and Sabonis as a big three. Many believe Murray has All-Star potential, especially with his defensive progressions this season. Murray is developing into an elite two-way talent, and while it makes sense for the Raptors to value him in a trade, the Kings will likely not let go of him.
Siakam and Anunoby are in the last year of their contracts as the Raptors look to find trade suitors before losing them for nothing in free agency. Sacramento should be hesitant to entertain a trade for either side of the Toronto duo, knowing it could be a half-season rental.
The Raptors' steep asking price for Anunoby and Siakam will likely lead to no deal getting done. The only reason for the Kings to acquire a premier talent is to pair them with Fox, Sabonis, and Murray. Sorry Toronto, the Kings are not giving up Murray.
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