The NBA trade rumor mill is heating up as the deadline approaches in just under two weeks. While several big names are potentially available at the right price, most teams are just looking for one or two small upgrades to boost their roster. The Toronto Raptors are playoff contender looking for another addition that could potentially push them into the conference finals and Markieff Morris might be that guy.
According to ESPN's Marc Stein, the Raptors are eyeing a deal for Morris from the Phoenix Suns as they are a team almost guaranteed to make a trade at the deadline. Morris has been an interesting storyline this year. Many believed he was destined to get traded before the season, but no one wanted his contract. Now he is starting to play well. He dropped 30 points in the Suns' recent game putting him on full display for trades. The Raptors took notice.
The Raptors have their eyes on several players of the Suns as the team is looking to break their roster down. PJ Tucker is a capable veteran on the wing that is gaining interest from Toronto. Phoenix is essentially done for the year with Eric Bledsoe and TJ Warren out for the season. They have their eyes on the No.1 seed for the lottery and a top draft pick. That means selling off big contracts which Tucker and Morris each hold.
The Raptors have a big need for someone like Tucker. DeMarre Carroll is hurt. James Johnson is injured. DeMar DeRozan and Terrence Ross are all the team has to go on right now at the position and they need depth to help out. Currently holding the No.2 seed in the East, the Raptors want a trade to get them over the hump.
It is unclear what Toronto would be willing to give up. While everyone wants to assume DeRozan is a trade target at the deadline, the star is going nowhere. There is no chance the Raptors trade him knowing they are better with him than without him even with the expiring contract. Patrick Patterson and Luis Scola could be sent packing if a deal strikes up. Anthony Bennett is another player the team is not sold on keeping. The Suns likely do not want long-term commitments in trade deals. Contracts will play a big role in something getting done. Acquiring someone like Morris could help the team or hurt their chemistry, but the Raptors appear willing to try.
