The Toronto Raptors have been linked to quite a few major trades over the last couple of years, but they haven’t been able to get any of them done. However, they continue to be a team to watch for a potential blockbuster trade.
One could present itself in the near future. Following the disappointing injury news for the Los Angeles Clippers regarding Kawhi Leonard, is there a chance that they could break down the roster?
James Harden is a name that is starting to generate some buzz as a potential trade candidate. If he is placed on the trade block, could the Raptors get involved as a potential suitor?
That is exactly what Joseph Kallan of FanSided is suggesting. He has the Toronto Raptors listed as a potential trade destination if the Clippers go through a fire sale.
A Potential Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Clippers James Harden Trade
Kallan has come up with a suggested trade that would send Harden to the Raptors. Let’s take a look at the potential trade.
Toronto Raptors Receive: James Harden
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Bruce Brown, Chris Boucher, Ja’Kobe Walter, 2029 First-Round Pick
Bringing Harden to Toronto would be a very intriguing move for the Raptors. He would instantly become the face of the franchise and would put the team back on the map as a contender in the East.
During the 2023-24 NBA season with the Clippers, Harden ended up averaging 21.2 points, 8.0 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game. He also shot 42.8 percent from the floor and knocked down 38.1 percent of his three-point attempts.
At 35 years old, Harden would join a very talented young core with the Toronto Raptors.
If the trade was made as constructed above, the Raptors would hold onto Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, Gradey Dick, and Immanuel Quickley. All of those players would be great supporting role players alongside Harden.
Granted, it’s not likely that the Clippers will tear things down just yet. However, if Leonard can’t come back healthy in the near future, the team could be in a bad place by the trade deadline.
Harden would be a name to watch if Los Angeles is out of contention around the deadline. The Toronto Raptors would then make sense as a potential trade suitor.
