Sacramento Kings aggressively pursuing Raptors’ rising star
By Logan Struck
The 2023 offseason frenzy has begun, with recent reports suggesting the Sacramento Kings are targeting Wizards’ star, Bradley Beal. Along with Beal, there are now reports, according to Damien Burling (via DLoAndKC on ESPN 1320 Sacramento), that the Sacramento Kings are “aggressively pursuing” Toronto Raptors’ rising star, O.G. Anunoby.
The 25-year-old forward finished his sixth NBA season averaging 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.9 steals per game. Anunoby is a premier two-way player in the NBA and possibly the best pure 3-and-D guy across the league. His 47/38/83 shooting splits show his efficiency, even on a struggling Raptors team that missed the playoffs.
After a .500 season for Toronto, they are looking to blow it up. A core of Fred Vanvleet, Pascal Siakam, O.G. Anunoby, and Scottie Barnes is not cutting it, as Barnes could be the only core piece left on that roster next season. While looking to blow it up, the Raptors want young players and draft picks in return. Sacramento’s young assets are limited, considering how they want to keep their core together, and their draft capital is nothing to brag about.
O.G. Anunoby is a great player and a perfect fit for the Kings to replace Harrison Barnes. All Sacramento Kings fans want Anunoby, but not all are willing to give up the necessary haul. So, the biggest question is:
What would it take for the Sacramento Kings to land O.G. Anunoby?
The Sacramento Kings have five realistic trade assets (not including draft picks): Kevin Huerter, Davion Mitchell, Richaun Holmes, Malik Monk, and Keegan Murray. While nobody wants to give up some of these guys, the front office knows who is worth giving up for Anunoby.
Would a package including Davion Mitchell, Richaun Holmes, the 2023 24th overall pick, and a future first-round pick be enough?
We would love to see what trade package the Kings have put together to pursue O.G. Anunoby, but the Raptors asking price might be too high for a team with limited assets. The Kings need to do everything in their power to get Anunoby to Sacramento without giving up their whole future. Anunoby has one year left on his deal before a player option kicks in, so a trade this offseason possibly leads to a one-year rental of the rising star.
Is it worth giving the Raptors the keys to the city of Sacramento in exchange for O.G. Anunoby, or are the Kings better off staying away from this one?
