Two ‘Ambitious’ Trade Targets for the No. 3 Pick: Brandon Ingram or Pascal Siakam

By Andrew Bancroft May 22, 2023 31 mins read 171 Views

Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images

Bleacher Report has some ideas.
The Portland Trail Blazers are caught between a rock and a hard place regarding what to do with their No. 3 pick at this summer’s NBA Draft.

Keep the pick, and risk the trouble of upsetting your franchise Hall-of-Famer Damian Lillard by not getting veteran help for a playoff push. Move it in a trade package and risk the double-trouble of gutting your assets and future for a roster that might not hit lofty aspirations of contending in a tight window.

As with any difficult decision, outside speculation about what Portland will do has run rampant since the ping-pong balls popped out and it likely won’t cease until draft night. Insert Bleacher Report’s latest trade scenario piece from writers Dan Favale and Grant Hughes, which identified two “ambitious” trade targets for the pick: Brandon Ingram or Pascal Siakam.

The Ingram idea was actually written from the New Orleans Pelicans’ perspective, with Hughes thinking a high-end rookie prospect could give the franchise a safety plan if the oft-injured Zion Williamson can’t remain on the floor. Include Blazers guard Anfernee Simons in the package, if the Pelicans can get off CJ McCollum’s contract elsewhere — where have I seen this movie before? — and Hughes thought New Orleans may pull the trigger.

But this is about thinking big, so a deal for Portland’s No. 3 pick and at least one of its other high-end assets is where we have to start. If the Pelicans put Brandon Ingram on the table, he alone might be enough to bring back No. 3 and Anfernee Simons. Moving McCollum elsewhere would leave New Orleans in an an even better position.

Simons (38.7 percent for his career) and McCollum (39.5 percent) share comparable three-point accuracy, but the former offers significantly more volume (8.5 attempts per 36 minutes to McCollum’s 6.8) and the upside of youth and a cheaper price tag. If Zion Williamson is to spend the lion’s share of time on the ball, Simons’ quick-trigger sniping might add more value than McCollum’s dribble-heavy game. And with that No. 3 pick replacing Ingram on the roster, New Orleans could quietly add a potential cornerstone for the worst-case scenario of Zion never staying healthy.

To give this trade suggestion credit, it is at least innovative. Ingram isn’t one of the usual suspects to appear in the plethora of hypothetical trade stories coming out. Plus, with an All-Star appearance to his name and a career-high average of 24.7 points per game this season, he does get closer to that “elite small forward” description Portland is reported to be looking for. But this scenario is asking a lot from the Pelicans front office in terms of franchise direction. They’d essentially be moving their contending timeline several years down the road by getting rid of a key veteran like Ingram. For a team that vaulted to No. 1 in the West early in the season and rarely had its core healthy at the same time, it’s unlikely New Orleans is this eager to give up on its roster.

The other idea, trading the third pick as part of a package for Siakam, is a much more common hypothetical. Hughes wrote Siakam’s combination of size, scoring and defense is exactly what Portland needs.

Coming off a career-high 24.2 points and 5.8 assists per game, Siakam would give Lillard his most decorated and productive teammate since LaMarcus Aldridge—one who could man the small-ball center spot, create his own shots and work some matchup-hunting magic in the high screen game.

Toronto may lose both Fred VanVleet and Gary Trent Jr. in free agency. Adding Simons and/or Sharpe would reset the team’s timeline and add much-needed athleticism from the guard spots. Whether Portland would be willing to part with both Sharpe and the No. 3 overall pick is unclear; Sharpe enjoyed a little-noticed leap down the stretch for a tanking Blazers squad last year and may have the best physical tools of anyone in the 2022 draft class.

Then again, if Portland is as serious about supporting Dame as its email to fans suggests, it might be willing to give up almost anything.

Siakam, a two-time All-NBA honoree and NBA champion for the Toronto Raptors, at least returns to Portland the necessary talent required to move such a high draft pick in a loaded class. Or at least it gets closer to that sweet spot. But how much else does Toronto want? Siakam is entering the final year of his contract, so franchises dealing for him run the risk of receiving a one-year rental. Does that risk drive Toronto’s bargaining power down enough where he could be gotten for a sensible price?

Just over a month of speculation awaits us until Draft Day.

References:

By: Conor Bergin
Title: Two ‘Ambitious’ Trade Targets for the No. 3 Pick: Brandon Ingram or Pascal Siakam
Sourced From: www.blazersedge.com/2023/5/21/23731740/portland-trail-blazers-pascal-siakam-brandon-ingram-trade-rumors-nba-draft-lottery-third-pick-scoot
Published Date: 05-22-2023

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Vancouver have an NBA team?

Vancouver does not have a NBA team. The Vancouver Grizzlies played in Vancouver from 1995-2001. The team relocated to Memphis Tennessee in 2001. Vancouver's basketball community supports the Toronto Raptors because they are the closest NBA team. There are also other professional basketball teams that play in and around Vancouver, including the BC Tigers of Canada's Elite Basketball League and Vancouver Volcanoes International Basketball League. Many amateur and semiprofessional teams play in different local leagues.

Vancouver offers many recreational options for fans to enjoy their favorite sport, aside from basketball. For example, the Vancouver Grizzlies Alumni Association is a group that strives to connect former players from the team with each other and also bring awareness of basketball in British Columbia. The association hosts clinics and viewing parties for Raptors matches.

The city's love of basketball has not decreased since the departures of the Grizzlies. And it continues to be a supportive community in numerous ways. Vancouverites continue to share their passion for basketball through attending games, watching Raptors games, and supporting the many initiatives taken by former players as well as other organizations working to increase awareness about basketball in the area.

Why is Toronto Raptors called Raptors

The NBA's expansion to Canada saw the creation of the Toronto Raptors in 1995. The logo and name of the team are based on Jurassic Park, which was released in 1995. The team colors are bright red, silver, purple, black and silver.

In the first season of Raptors basketball, the team struggled to find their footing in the league and finished with a 21-61 record. The team continued to improve each year and made it to the playoffs in 1999.

The Raptors' most memorable moment was in 2019, when they won the NBA championship title. Toronto's first title was won by Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry, their backcourt duo. They defeated the Golden State Warriors in six thrilling games.

Since then, the Raptors have become firmly entrenched as one of Canada's most beloved sports teams. Toronto continues to provide excitement to basketball fans worldwide, whether they are international superstars or homegrown talent.

The Toronto Raptors are proud to be a part of Canada's basketball history. Their success on the court inspires young players across the country. The Raptors are a beloved team in Canada thanks to their passion, unmatched style of play and dedication to excellence.

When was the Raptors' inaugural game?

The Raptors played the New Jersey Nets in their first regular season at the SkyDome on November 3, 1995. Alvin Robertson scored his first points in franchise history. 33,306 people were there. The Raptors defeated Nets 94-79% with contributions from Damon Stoudamire (with 10 points and 10 assists) as well Robertson (30pts).

When were the Raptors able to beat the Chicago Bulls.

On March 24, 1996, the Raptors beat the Chicago Bulls, who would win the NBA Championship that year. Final score was 109-108. Michael Jordan tried to win for the Bulls with a last-minute shot but it didn't matter because it came after the final buzzer had sounded.

Statistics

In November of the 1996–97 season, Bitove sold his ownership interest in the team to Slaight for $65 million after Slaight had activated a shotgun clause in their partnership agreement,[32][33] giving Slaight 79 percent control of the team, [34] (en.wikipedia.org)
This improved during the 2006–07 regular season to an average of 18,258 fans (13th in the league), 92.2 percent capacity at the Air Canada Centre. (en.wikipedia.org)
By 2018, estimated the Raptors were worth $1.4 billion, 12th in the NBA. (en.wikipedia.org)
This improved during the 2006–07 regular season to an average of 18,258 fans (13th in the league), 92.2 percent capacity at the Air Canada Centre. (en.wikipedia.org)
After Thomas attempted to execute a letter of intent with Slaight to purchase the team failed, he resigned from his position in November and sold his 9 percent stake in the team to Slaight. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

How to Buy a Toronto Raptors Authentic Jersey

An authentic Toronto Raptors jersey is the best way to show your support for the team. Quality jerseys made of high-quality materials are authentic and can be worn on the court by players in the exact cut and design. Whether you're looking for a modified version or a replica, there are a few ways to get an authentic Raptors jersey.

The official Toronto Raptors web store is the best and easiest option. Here you'll find a wide selection of jerseys for men, women, and kids. You can choose from different designs, such as home, away or alternate. So you can get exactly the look that you desire. The store also carries a range of accessories to complete your authentic Raptors game-day look.

The Toronto Raptors team shop at Scotiabank Arena offers something truly unique if you're looking to find it. There is a greater selection here of jerseys and team merchandise, including limited edition items like autographed ones.

You can also find them online at many retailers if you want an authentic Raptors uniform. Make sure you do your research thoroughly and make sure the seller is legitimate before purchasing. Be sure to keep an eye on special deals, discounts, promotions, and other offers that may save you money.

A Toronto Raptors jersey is more than just an item of clothing. A Toronto Raptors jersey is more than just a piece of clothing. It's a symbol for pride for all sports fans. Fans treasure the jerseys of their favorite teams. The jersey is more than just another piece. These jerseys have a special meaning to their wearers.

They are the symbol of excellence in basketball. These jerseys are cherished by fans because they have seen their stars grow up and play on the court.

Fans also enjoy the experience of watching the players play live. Fans are able to feel a connection to the athletes by seeing them in action.

Toronto Raptors jerseys are a great way to show players' support while enjoying the game's action.

These are the steps you need to take in order to purchase an authentic Toronto Raptors jersey:

Go to Official Stores or Retailers - If you want to buy a real Toronto Raptors jersey, then go to an official store or retailer like Nike, Adidas, Fanatic, Mitchell & Ness, etc. These items are available at any sports shop.
Look for Authenticity – Every item should have a certified of authenticity. Verify that the jersey has the correct number of players and the correct name. Check if there is a patch or sticker. Also, make sure to inspect the jersey for any damage.
Purchase Online - If you don't have access to an official store, you may be able to purchase your desired jersey online. Be sure to get free shipping if you are purchasing from an online seller.
Wait for Your Item - After you receive your jersey, be sure to take good care. Do not wear it outside. Only use it to view the game. Never wash it.