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3mo ago

Raptors Poised to Be Buyers, Exploring RJ Barrett as Trade Chip

Toronto is responding to ownership’s push to accelerate the post‑title rebuild by leveraging Barrett’s $30 million slot for an in‑season upgrade.

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Jan 27, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard RJ Barrett (9) controls the ball as New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) defends during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • NBA insider Jake Fischer says Toronto plans to enter 2025–26 as a trade buyer with a focus on improving its standing in the Eastern Conference.
  • R.J. Barrett is being actively shopped, his representatives have been informed, and his roughly $60 million over two years is viewed as a key matching salary.
  • Barrett was made available in talks with the Pelicans during the February deal for Brandon Ingram, but New Orleans was not interested in acquiring him.
  • Bobby Webster now leads basketball operations after the split with Masai Ujiri, and league reporting describes pressure from MLSE to move beyond a prolonged rebuild.
  • Barrett averaged 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds and 5.4 assists last season, as the front office evaluates roster fit around Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram and Immanuel Quickley.