The team is 10-6 and have one of the best back court duos in the league, but this squad needs an enforcer, someone who will do the dirty work and provide some leadership.
The league’s trade deadline is still two months away, but that hasn’t stopped rumors and speculation from fans and experts. Recent reports have Taj Gibson of Chicago as a possible target and while the 30-year-old is mostly known for his play off the bench, he is the kind of player that can spark a team with a tough basket in the paint or a block shot that can change the outcome of a game.
A former first round pick back in 2009 has never played more than 30 minutes per game in a season, but with a limited role, he has averaged nine points, six rebounds, and over one block per game, not bad stats for a bench player, but just the kind of production that would make him a great fit in Toronto.
Gibson’s role has decreased this season and his numbers have suffered, but his experience and skill set is just what the Raptors will look for if they decide to make a deal in the coming weeks.
Sports Illustrated has suggested a deal sending Luis Scola to the Bulls, a move that would give Chicago another scoring option off the bench, something they have lacked in recent years, making this a win-win proposition for both franchises.
Both of these NBA teams had high expectations entering this season and while both are playing reasonably well, neither is playing at the level that will secure them a top-4 spot in the Eastern Conference and home court advantage in the playoffs.
This trade would help both squads and possibly send one to the upper echelon of the league and with a good chance to represent the East in the Finals next summer.