Losing a good rim protector in Bismack Biyombo during the summer free agency was a blow to the Raptors title hopes. But now that Jared Sullinger is out with an injury, the team is looking to trade for another big man and is currently in talks with the Sixers for Nerlens Noel.
According to sources, the Toronto Raptors could part with Cory Joseph and a first round pick in order to acquire the center from Philly. Although some outlets have suggested that the Philadelphia 76ers are more interested in swingman Terrence Ross if the Raptors really want to get the highly sought after Nerlens Noel.
It is no secret that the 76ers have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to centers. But now that they have landed a potential superstar in forward Ben Simmons. It is more than likely that the Sixers will have to start unloading one of their centers this season. And with Joel Embiid having a remarkable first year, it is starting to look like the more vocal Nerlens Noel to be the guy getting the boot.
In some ways, the trade will make sense for both teams. The Sixers will get a good offensive threat with Terrence Ross while the Raptors will bag a solid center in Noel.
For the Sixers, having Ross can help the team in terms of keeping them afloat from the injury of Simmons and while Joel Embiid is still figuring things out.
The Toronto Raptors, on the other hand, will benefit more from this deal. Nerlens Noel has a lot of potentials and is already a capable center. The Raptors are already one of the top contenders in the East and would probably be in the finals if it were not for a certain guy named Lebron James. Adding a solid center to back up Jonas Valenciunas could give massive headaches to the Cavaliers.
This trade is starting to look like a real possibility and a good game changer for the Raptors.
