Kofi Inkoom
The Toronto Raptors and the Indiana Pacers are actively talking about swapping Pascal Siakam, a two-time All-Star forward, for a package including Bruce Brown Jr., other players, and three first-round draft picks, as per reports by Shams Charania of the Athletic.
While the Raptors have been talking with various teams about trading Siakam, their discussions with the Pacers have picked up speed recently, according to sources. Shams mentions that there have been back-and-forth proposals in the talks between the two teams.
Trade package between the Raptors and Pacers being discussed:
Raptors receive:
Bruce Brown
Salary Filler
First Round Pick
First Round Pick
First Round PickPacers receive:
Pascal Siakam(Via @ShamsCharania ) pic.twitter.com/1Oh6FE7UiF
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 17, 2024
Although both sides are deep into the discussions, they haven’t settled on a deal yet, as per the same sources. The Raptors’ position is unclear, but the Pacers seem highly motivated to make the trade happen.
The Sacramento Kings were initially interested in Siakam but have recently decided to step back from the conversations. Siakam himself is not keen on the idea of re-signing in Sacramento, making a deal with the Kings even more challenging.
The Warriors and the Mavs have also shown keen interest in landing Siakam but there hasn’t been any traction yet.
Siakam is approaching the end of his contract, set at $38 million, giving the 29-year-old some say in choosing his next team.
Any potential team would be interested in whether he intends to re-sign as a free agent, considering the assets involved in a trade.
If the Raptors decide not to trade Siakam before the February 8 deadline, there’s a chance for an extension, offering room to revisit the situation in the summer. However, talks regarding a max-salary deal between Siakam and the Raptors have stalled in recent months.