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Since joining the Raptors, the 24-year-old forward has taken significant strides, particularly as a playmaker. He is averaging a career-high 21.7 points and 5.6 assists per game while shooting 47.6 percent from the field and 35.

The Toronto Raptors swung for a big fish at the trade deadline and acquired Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans. The Raptors traded away Kelly Olynyk and Bruce Brown, but there were talks that RJ Barrett could have been part of the deal.

RJ Barrett was discussed in trade talks for Brandon Ingram with New Orleans, but the Pelicans preferred the expiring contract of Bruce Brown and stretch-five center Kelly Olynyk, who’s owed $13.45

They chose to not land excess draft picks when they traded away OG Anunoby last season, prioritizing winning players such as RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley. While both players are starter caliber, neither has improved the Raptors' winning fortunes in any way.

The Toronto Raptors have begun tanking in earnest as they turn their attention toward a top pick in this year's draft

RJ Barrett could be on the move this summer. After making the trade for Brandon Ingram, not only will the Toronto Raptors be an expensive team working very close to the luxury tax.