Toronto Raptors consider Deandre Ayton trade for 2025 cap space

The Toronto Raptors are considering a trade for Deandre Ayton to address their cap space issues, particularly with Scottie Barnes' rookie extension set to kick in next July. Ayton, who is 26 years old, would provide a strong interior presence to complement the Raptors' young perimeter players, Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett. His current salary of $34 million is manageable, and the Raptors are looking to offload contracts like those of Brown and Boucher before the trade deadline. The Portland Trail Blazers, currently in a rebuilding phase, could benefit from trading Ayton, as it would allow them to save over $35.5 million in cap space by 2025. This aligns with their strategy to develop younger talent, including Clingan and potentially Scoot Henderson. Ayton's contract runs through the 2025-2026 season, making it an attractive option for the Blazers to clear salary while still having a competitive player on their roster. For the Raptors, acquiring Ayton would enhance their scoring capabilities, particularly near the basket, where he has shown impressive efficiency. His ability to convert 57% of his shot attempts and 76% of shots near the rim would provide a much-needed scoring layer that they currently lack with Jakob Pöltl. The Raptors could also maintain a strong center rotation by keeping Pöltl, which would bolster their defense against opponents. With significant investments in their young core, the Raptors are in a position where they cannot afford to tank. The upcoming season is crucial for them to maximize their roster's potential, making a trade for Ayton a strategic move to solidify their competitiveness in the league.