As the 2024 NBA trade deadline is closing in much quicker, the Toronto Raptors are now the hot topic of discussion right after their recent blockbuster deal with the Indiana Pacers that also involved Pascal Siakam.
With the dust still settling in, rumors start hovering around another versatile key player, Bruce Brown Jr., whom the Raptors recently acquired in the Siakam trade. Known for his all-round dominance on court, Brown is now at the center table of trade talks.
Why Raptors are demanding premium price for potential Bruce Brown move?
Bruce Brown Jr.’s arrival in Toronto has ignited immediate optimism regarding his future with the Raptors. The team is not inclined to part ways with this valuable wing player, reportedly setting a high and demanding price tag.
Based on reliable sources, it appears that Toronto is pursuing a future first-round pick along with a quality player, at a minimum, in return for Brown’s services. The Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks stand out as the top two interested parties. Nevertheless, the Raptors seem resolute in not letting go of Brown without securing a premium return.
The trade that moved Brown from the Pacers to the Raptors was influenced by the new salary-floor rules affecting the NBA. The Pacers, possessing ample cap space, inked Brown to a two-year, $45 million contract in the offseason, featuring a team option for the 2024-25 season. This strategic move enabled them to meet salary floor requirements while retaining flexibility.
Brown’s impact with the Pacers has been significant, boasting a career-high average of 12.1 points per game, coupled with substantial contributions in rebounds and assists. The Raptors, now in possession of this valuable asset, face a crucial decision as the trade deadline approaches—whether to retain Brown or explore alternative trade options.
Nonetheless, rumors are surrounding about Toronto’s potential willingness to trade Brown and the likely destinations for such a move. One such rumor involves the Houston Rockets, contemplating a move for Brown due to the anticipated positive impact he could have on the team’s lineup.
Bruce Brown discusses his trade rumors
As the NBA is closing approaching its trade deadlines, the latest buzz that surrounds Toronto Raptors’ newly acquired guard, Bruce Brown Jr is only on the climb. It seems the New York Knicks are also thinking of making a potential trade that could bring the versatile player to the Big Apple.
In a post-game interview following the Raptors’ 126-100 loss to the Knicks, Brown opened up about the swirling rumors with confidence. He expressed himself as a ‘dog,’ emphasizing his hard play on both ends of the court. Brown insisted that he embodies the type of player that Knicks Head Coach Tom Thibodeau would be eager to acquire.
Brown said, “I am a dog. I play extremely hard on both ends of the floor. I can do just about whatever [Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau] needs me to do.”
While on the other side of the western conference, the Los Angeles Lakers are also keen on acquiring him since the past off-season and this might rekindle their interest for him, if, of course, the Raptors decide to part ways with the 27-year-old guard.
Amidst all of the trade talks and speculations that surround Bruce Brown, he stives to maintain a composed stance.
“I don’t know anything. I’m not requesting anything…That’s up to Masai, whatever he wants to do. If he moves me he moves me. If he doesn’t, I’ll say. It is what it is.”
By acknowledging the rumors, he stated that the trades happenings are out of his control as it’s really up to higher authorities of the team, indicating towards the Raptors’ President, Masai Ujiri.
Where do you think a championship caliber player like Bruce Brown Jr., who is exceptional on both ends of the court, would land up? Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below!
