The Toronto Raptors have emerged as one of the NBA’s biggest surprises this season, racing out to a 29–20 record that currently sits fourth in the Eastern Conference. While the start has exceeded expectations, Toronto isn’t content to stand pat.
With their sights set on overtaking the Detroit Pistons atop the East, the Raptors are exploring ways to strengthen their frontcourt ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline and have identified two big men as they look to make a meaningful push in the second half of the season.
Two Big Men Emerge as Raptors’ Top Trade Targets
With the Raptors outperforming preseason projections, their competitive timeline appears to have accelerated. But frontcourt depth has become a growing concern, particularly with Jakob Poeltl dealing with ongoing back issues.
According to Clutch Sports insider Bret Siegel, Toronto is closely monitoring Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford and New Orleans Pelicans big man Yves Missi ahead of the trade deadline.
“Along with keeping a close eye on the Bucks and Giannis, the Raptors have been discussing several trade options to upgrade their frontcourt talent next to Jakob Poeltl, sources said,” Siegel wrote.
“Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford and New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi are at the forefront of the Raptors’ trade deadline plans.”
Barring a surprise move involving Poeltl, who has surfaced in some trade discussions, the Raptors are expected to pursue only one of the two centers. While both Gafford and Missi would provide reliable depth, Missi is widely viewed as the better option.
“Regarding Missi, both the Bulls and Raptors have held trade dialogue with the Pelicans. After being an All-Rookie selection a season ago, Missi does not hold first-round value in trade talks, and teams believe a deal involving him before the deadline that revolves around second-round picks is likely, sources said,” Siegel added.
Toronto had previously been linked to Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis, but his contract and trade value have proven to be significant obstacles. According to Siegel, the Raptors are hesitant to disrupt their core amid a successful season.
“Toronto is said to be prioritizing moves, like Gafford or Missi, over ripping their core apart to pursue Sabonis in Sacramento. Sabonis is still an option for the Raptors, but head coach Darko Rajakovic and the players have made it clear to front-office personnel that they do not want this roster to change much.”
Missi, selected 21st overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, has yet to break out but remains a serviceable backup, averaging 5.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. Gafford, meanwhile, isn’t a regular starter but has averaged 7.8 points and 6.3 rebounds across 32 appearances this season.
With the trade deadline approaching, Toronto appears focused on making a calculated move while remaining open to a blockbuster move involving Giannis Antetokounmpo. If the Raptors can shore up their interior without sacrificing core pieces, they may be well-positioned to sustain their momentum and potentially challenge for the top spot in the East.
