Report: Raptors “Intrigued” by Domantas Sabonis; Out on Davis & Morant
The Raptors trade rumors landscape has shifted dramatically. New reports clarify that Toronto has officially cooled on two superstars, narrowing their focus to a specific target in the Western Conference.
TSP Rumor Tracker: Jan 22 Update
We are tracking a pivotal update from NBA Insider Jake Fischer (via Marc Stein’s Substack) that reshapes Toronto’s deadline strategy.
- Domantas Sabonis (SAC): Raptors are “still intrigued” and monitoring his situation.
- Anthony Davis (DAL): Toronto is signaling they are “no longer involved” in talks.
- Ja Morant (MEM): Personnel are messaging that Toronto “isn’t actively pursuing” the guard.
For weeks, the Raptors trade rumors cycle has linked Toronto to nearly every distressed asset in the NBA. However, a new report from Jake Fischer has finally separated the signal from the noise, confirming that the front office has narrowed its list of targets significantly as the deadline approaches.
The “Yes” List: Domantas Sabonis
While other names have fallen off the board, one remains firmly in Bobby Webster’s sights. According to Fischer, the Raptors have maintained a steady interest in the Sacramento Kings’ All-Star center.
“I have been told by various NBA figures that the Raptors are still intrigued by the prospect of pursuing Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis.” — Jake Fischer (via Marc Stein)
This aligns with previous reporting that Toronto views Sabonis as an ideal stylistic fit next to Scottie Barnes—a high-post hub who can facilitate the offense without demanding every isolation touch. With the Raptors fighting for positioning in the Playoff Race, Sabonis offers the floor-raising ability they covet.
Anthony Davis: “No Longer Involved”
The dream of landing Anthony Davis appears to be dead. Fischer reports that both the Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors—previously seen as the top suitors—have officially backed off.
“[They] have been signaling that they are no longer involved in significant trade talks with the Mavericks.” — Jake Fischer (via Marc Stein)
The combination of Davis’s age, injury history, and the massive contract extension required likely pushed the price beyond what Toronto was comfortable paying.
Ja Morant: “Not Actively Pursuing”
Similarly, the noise surrounding Ja Morant seems to be coming from Memphis, not Toronto. Despite the Grizzlies “welcoming inquiries,” Fischer notes that Raptors personnel are messaging that the team “isn’t actively pursuing” the mercurial guard.
TSP Analysis: The Smart Pivot
Dropping out of the Morant and Davis sweepstakes signals that the Raptors are prioritizing culture and fit over raw star power.
Sabonis represents a “safe” bet—an elite rebounder and playmaker who fits the team’s “0.5 offense” philosophy. By focusing their assets on him, they avoid the volatility of Morant and the durability risks of Davis.
For the full report from Jake Fischer, subscribe to The Stein Line.
