Toronto Raptors are purportedly set to pick up Bruce Brown’s team option and utilize him as trade bait for a more prominent star.
Bruce Brown’s future with the Toronto Raptors appears uncertain as reports suggest the team plans to exercise his $23 million team option and use him as a trade asset this offseason. According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Raptors view Brown as a potential bargaining chip to acquire a higher-profile player to bolster their roster.
The Raptors’ decision comes amidst their efforts to build around rising star Scottie Barnes, whom they are also keen on extending this offseason. Clearly, Barnes is seen as integral to the franchise’s future plans, further highlighting the strategic moves the Raptors are making.
Brown, who joined the Raptors via a trade from the Indiana Pacers last offseason, struggled to replicate his championship-winning form with the Denver Nuggets. Despite this, his versatility and ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game make him an attractive option for teams seeking playoff experience without breaking the bank on salary cap space.
While Scotto did not specify potential suitors for Brown, teams like the Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks have previously shown interest in him. Both teams could benefit from Brown’s skill set and playoff experience, potentially viewing him as a missing piece in their championship aspirations.
In his championship season with the Nuggets, Brown averaged 11.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, showcasing his ability to perform alongside star players like Nikola Jokic. However, concerns linger following a slight decline in his statistics after joining the Raptors mid-season.