Report: Raptors Trade Deadline Rumors Debunked; Webster Safe
The latest Raptors trade deadline rumors suggesting Bobby Webster is on the “hot seat” have been emphatically shut down, with reports confirming the GM is nearing a long-term extension.
TSP Rumor Tracker: Jan 20 Update
We are tracking a detailed report from Sportsnet’s Michael Grange regarding the Raptors’ deadline approach.
- GM Status: Webster and MLSE are discussing a multi-year extension.
- Deadline Strategy: Patience. No “rabbit out of a hat” moves expected.
- Star Targets: Interest in Ja Morant (Unlikely) and Anthony Davis (Too risky/old) is largely smoke.
- Actual Targets: Day’Ron Sharpe (BKN), Goga Bitadze (ORL), Yves Missi (NOP).
As the February 5th trade deadline approaches, the Raptors trade deadline rumors mill has been spinning with theories that General Manager Bobby Webster is under pressure to make a splashy, job-saving move. According to a new report from Sportsnet’s Michael Grange, those theories are dead wrong.
Webster’s Status: “100% Aware”
Despite whispers from rival executives that Webster might be “feeling some heat” to justify his job under the new Rogers-led ownership group, the reality inside Scotiabank Arena is much calmer.
Grange reports that Webster and the Raptors have already had “meaningful discussions on a multi-year extension,” with talks expected to accelerate after the deadline. MLSE President Keith Pelley shut down the “hot seat” narrative entirely.
“There is no pressure regarding the trade deadline or his contract… And he is 100 per cent aware of that. The team is moving in the right direction… This team under Bobby’s direction, will contend for championships.” — Keith Pelley, MLSE President (via Sportsnet)
Raptors Trade Deadline Rumors: Star Search?
Because of the false narrative that Webster needs a “win-now” move, the Raptors trade deadline rumors have linked the team to every distressed star on the market, including Ja Morant and Anthony Davis. Grange’s report pours cold water on these blockbuster ideas.
- Ja Morant: When asked if the Raptors are in the market for the Grizzlies star, one insider gave Grange a succinct answer: “No.”
- Anthony Davis: While conversations have happened, the timing doesn’t fit. Davis is nearing 33, has an extensive injury history, and would require a massive extension that conflicts with Toronto’s timeline centered on Scottie Barnes (24) and Collin Murray-Boyles (21).
- Domantas Sabonis: The stylistic fit makes sense, but financial hurdles regarding Toronto’s outgoing contracts make it difficult.
The Real Plan: Backup Bigs
With Jakob Poeltl dealing with lingering back issues and rookie sensation Collin Murray-Boyles nursing a thumb injury, the Raptors’ actual deadline priority is likely a rotation-level center. Grange identifies Ochai Agbaji ($6.4M expiring) as the likely trade chip.
The names to watch are less flashy but more practical:
- Day’Ron Sharpe (Nets): A rebounding machine who fits the age curve.
- Goga Bitadze (Magic): A solid rim protector stuck behind a deep Orlando frontcourt.
- Yves Missi (Pelicans): A high-upside rookie reportedly available as New Orleans pivots.
TSP Analysis: The Financial Reality
One certainty mentioned in the report is the luxury tax. The Raptors are currently ~$967,000 over the tax line. Expect a minor move to shed salary (potentially involving Agbaji or Garrett Temple) to get under that threshold.
Furthermore, trading Immanuel Quickley or Jakob Poeltl is viewed as difficult. Grange notes that their long-term money is currently viewed as negative value, likely requiring Toronto to attach draft assets to move them—something a patient front office won’t do.
For the full breakdown of Webster’s future and the team’s deadline plans, read Michael Grange’s report at Sportsnet.
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