Rumor: Raptors Have Eyes on Cleveland Big Man

 

Since losing Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka over the last two seasons, the Toronto Raptors have been unable to fill their center spot adequately. Sources say they are hoping to solve that by acquiring Cleveland Cavaliers restricted free agent Jarrett Allen. 

Jarrett Allen could just give the Raptors the edge they need 👀 pic.twitter.com/YlhTR2NONw

— Raptors Nation (@RaptorsNationCP) July 25, 2021

The report by The Athletic's Shams Charania says that the Raptors are expected to be a "strong suitor" for Allen, though they may have to "overpay" to pry him loose from the Cavs. 

The same sources said that the Raptors have tried to trade for the 23-year-old center in the past, before he was dealt to Cleveland as part of the blockbuster deal that brought James Harden to Brooklyn. 

Allen averaged 12.8 PPG this past season, 10 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks. That, plus his strong rim protection, would be a massive upgrade at the 'five' for the Raptors, who tried a varied collection of true centers this past season—Aron Baynes, Alex Len and Khem Birch. Toronto also used the slender Chris Boucher at the five in small-ball lineups. 

The Raptors could have some decent cap space this offseason, but only if they renounce free agent Kyle Lowry. Sign-and-trades could be part of the equation as well. 

Photo Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports