2025 – Three potential trade goals for the Raptors in 26 – Basketball insiders

The Toronto Raptors entered the 2025-26 season, determined to steal their three-year playoff drought. After the playoffs are over again, they will rely on Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley and Jakob Poeltl to lead.

Toronto added Sandro Mamukelashvili to free agents and drafted Collin Murray-Boyles and Alijah Martin. These moves provide depth, but if the Raptors want to compete for the game in a weaker Eastern Conference, they may need more. Here are three players they can pursue through trade.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee is the main storyline of this offseason. Despite the two MVP choices to stay with the Bucks, trade speculation continues.

Toronto has long been associated with Antetokounmpo, and if he is available, he may push hard. Getting his competitiveness and competitiveness will be expensive and competitive, but he will provide superstars for the Raptors’ presence, which has been lacking since Kawhi Leonard left.

Nick Richards

This summer, Phoenix Suns entered rebuild mode, adding young centers Khaman Maluach and Mark Williams. This makes Nick Richards a possible trade candidate.

Richards, 27, offers edge protection, rebounding and steady scoring abilities. Toronto lacks reliable frontcourt depth behind Poeltl, and Richards can play that role without the need for a massive trade package. His affordable value makes him a realistic goal.

Devin Carter

Devin Carter, drafted by Sacramento, missed a rookie year in the first half of the season due to shoulder surgery. Still, he demonstrated elite defensive instinct and high energy.

Toronto can aim to strengthen its backfield depth with Carter. Although his offensive game is still in progress, his defense will fit in with the Raptors’ identity. With patience and development, he can evolve into a core rotation player.

Looking to the future

Although none of these actions are guaranteed, each action represents a different type of upgrade. Antetokounmpo will be the acquisition that changes the franchise. Richards will strengthen the bench. Carter will add youth and defensive versatility.

Toronto position itself as opportunism. If the right deal comes up, it will be enough to eventually bring the Raptors back to the playoffs photos.