The Toronto Raptors surprised the NBA world last season when they won 56 out of 82 regular season games and became the 2nd overall seed in the East during the playoffs. They reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in their 21-year NBA existence.
Although they were beaten by the eventual NBA champs Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals, they were still considered as one of the teams to challenge the Cavs in the East this season. And at 10-6 win-loss record, they were 2nd in the East behind Cavaliers. They won their last two games, beating the Houston Rockets and the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Raptors dominance once again this season was due to the breakout season by DeMar DeRozan. Now on its 8th season, DeRozan showed great improvement in almost every aspect of his game especially in his ability to score.
Last season, DeRozan averages 23.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.0 steal. But this season he was averaging a stellar 30.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.4 steals. He was third in the league in scoring behind Russell Westbrook and Anthony Davis.
But as good as the Raptors are right now, it looks like they are still not good enough to beat the Cavs in a seven-game playoff series. They have two All-Stars in DeRozan and Lowry. But the Cavs has three All-Stars and LeBron James who was the most dangerous player on the court in the playoffs.
For them, to have a better chance in claiming the throne in the East, they need another All-Star caliber player. And according to FADEAWAY WORLD, Anthony Davis might fit in well with the Raptors. In exchange, the Raptors could give Terrence Ross, Jonas Valanciunas, DeMarre Carroll and a first round draft pick.
Just like DeRozan, Davis is also having a breakout year in the 2016-2017 NBA season. In his 16 games with the Pelicans this season, he is averaging 31.3 points, 10.8 rebounds and 2.9 blocks. Davis is second in scoring, 7th in rebounds and first in blocks, per ESPN.
He is probably in the top five best players in the league right now. But his team is struggling quite a bit. A lack of capable supporting cast preventing him from getting more victories.
If this NBA trade rumor is to become a reality and Davis will play for the Raptors, his offensive burden will lighten up because of capable scorers in Lowry and DeRozan. The Raptors are also playing a team game which might be beneficial for Davis.
And according also to FADEAWAY WORLD, playing in the East will be much better for Davis because the East is weaker than the West. And with Davis on the Raptors roster, they might have a better chance of dethroning the Cavs.
Will Anthony Davis play for the Toronto Raptors? Stay tuned for more NBA trade rumors and updates.
