The Toronto Raptors gave the Cleveland Cavaliers a scare, but it's clear they need to find an upgrade or two. The Raptors' top priority is bringing back DeMar DeRozan, but are also looking for upgrades at a few spots on the roster. Here are all the latest Raptors rumors and news you need to know.
Raptors Rejected Trade For Serge Ibaka
The Raptors have a need at power forward, and nearly pulled the trigger on a trade for Serge Ibaka, reports SportsNet. The proposed deal was Ibaka for Cory Joseph, Norman Powell, Patrick Patterson and the No. 9 overall pick. The Raptors didn't want to ruin their bench to solidify the PF spot and Ibaka ultimately went to the Magic.
Quick Contract For DeRozan?
DeRozan isn't expected to leave the Raptors this offseason. While teams like the Lakers could push for a meeting, DeRozan will only sit down with the Raptors. And that meeting could be a short one according to SportsNet.
The only question, really, is what [GM Masai] Ujiri is going to offer the most loyal player the Raptors have ever had. If it’s a maximum contract worth a projected $153 million over five years, the formal part of the meeting will last about five minutes. DeRozan will sign on the spot and the rest of the time will be spent figuring out what other moves Toronto needs to make to close the one-game difference in the standings between them and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
If the Raptors don't offer that max deal, perhaps an in effort to save some cap space, the meeting could take a bit longer. However, don't expect DeRozan to leave Toronto to leave this offseason.
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