They say where there's smoke, there's fire.
A week away from the trade deadline there seems to be a lot of smoke coming out of Toronto in regard to O.G. Anunoby's future with the Raptors.
Anunoby has already been linked to the Knicks, Grizzlies and Suns through various reports. The Pelicans have also emerged as a potential landing spot for the versatile wing.
In conversation with NBA insider Marc Stein, Bleacher Report's Chris Haynes noted on their podcast "#thisleague UNCUT" that while he couldn't independently confirm what an Anunoby trade would return the Raptors, they are indeed listening to offers and mentioned the Pelicans as a team that's particularly high on the 25-year-old.
"The Raptors are listening. They are taking in proposals, trying to gauge what they actually can get in return for Anunoby," Haynes said. "I will say the New Orleans Pelicans are definitely high on him. They're definitely high on him.
"I got to spend some time with the Pelicans over the last few days. And so the Pelicans definitely feel like he can be a fit within their system and within their scheme and their personnel, so, you know, there's going to be serious pursuit."
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It shouldn't come as a surprise that the Pelicans — or any team for that matter — are high on Anunoby. He's one of the league's best defenders and offensively is more than just a 3-point shooter.
On the other hand, you can see why the Raptors would ultimately try and keep Anunoby in Toronto for the long term. That type of talent doesn't just grow on trees.
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Haynes, however, has a hunch that Anunoby does find a new team before the Feb. 9 trade deadline.
"Do I think he's ultimately moved? I do," Haynes continued. "I think O.G. himself, off what I'm hearing, he would like a change of scenery himself.
"I don't know that he's going to management or it's got that far to request a trade, but management know how he feels. He's let it be known already.
"So I think he would embrace a change of scenery."
Even though the Raptors may lose a clear cornerstone piece before the deadline, the team seems to be in a good position as multiple suitors for Anunoby's services should drive up the price and ensure a good return.
