As the NBA Finals are set to begin, trade buzz is rising, rumors are flying, and fans of the LA Clippers are becoming more excited, yet anxious, to see who will be brought in and what will be sent out. Only sources within know which players are likely to be traded, but one unknown secret is that Norman Powell could be putting on a new uniform next season.
It is still not too late to sell high on the former UCLA Bruin, as he averaged over 20 points per game last season, which was his career-best. He is also going to make a fully guaranteed $20 million next season, which is relatively parallel to his production.
If Powell is not shipped in a package for a big-named superstar, the Clippers will be trying to bring in someone who is still young but has prospered over the years. Most teams do not have a realistic target, but the Toronto Raptors do. They are also reportedly hunting for a blockbuster deal, according to Brian Windhorst on 'The Hoop Collective' podcast.
Though Powell is likely not the name they have in mind, the Raptors' front office can include him in another package for the player they are ultimately locked in on attaining. In return, Toronto can offer LA Immanuel Quickley.
The Clippers would have to do a two-for-one swap with the Raptors, but it would be worth it for Immanuel Quickley
Immanuel Quickley is one of the most experienced 25-year-olds in the NBA, as he has gone from bench player to sixth man to premiere scorer on two teams: the New York Knicks and Toronto Raptors. In fact, he was second in the Sixth Man of the Year voting in 2022-23.
Last season, Quickley played a measly 33 games but averaged 17.1 points, 5.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds, shooting 42.0% from the floor and 37.8% from beyond the arc.
Quickley is also on a massive, five-year contract worth $32.5 million each season. This is pricey, but the acquisition can still be made if Norman Powell, Drew Eubanks, and a second-round pick are attached.
Snatching Quickley from Toronto is wise for the future, and it gives the Raptors their 2019 champion back. It would then be their choice whether they want to keep him or trade him again with a player like Brandon Ingram for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Nonetheless, Quickley must have an eye kept on him as Masai Ujiri is supposed to be assertive this summer.