Despite the Toronto Raptors recent improved play, it seems that the trade rumours swirling around Toronto refuse to die down. In fact, you could argue they have only heated up as the Raptors game improves.
Two new rumours to tell you about today. Let me remind you, these are only rumours at this point and usually rumours don't pan out. But sometimes, where there is smoke there is fire and that's why these rumours are worth talking about.
The first rumour involving the Raptors I found today was on si.com, where the scenario had Jose Calderon, Andrea Bargnani, Anthony Parker (and possibly Kapono and Moon) heading to Phoenix for Steve Nash, Leandro Barbosa and Robin Lopez.
Not only do I believe that this rumour is full of bologna, but I also believe if it really is in the works, then Bryan Colangelo has lost his mind. Luckily, I have too much faith in B.C. to believe he is actually discussing this. I would love to see Nash end his career in the "Great White North," but not at that price.
The other Raptors trade rumour I came across today was found at rumorpress.net and is actually the hottest forum-topic among fans of prosportsdaily.com.
This deal makes more sense, but I'm still not in love with it. The main deal has J.O. being shipped off to Chicago for Andres Nocioni and Larry Hughes. Weeks ago I wouldn't consider this deal, but now that it looks likely that O'Neal will be in and out of the lineup all year, I probably consider it.
I know right now O'Neal's injury is a bruised right knee, but you don't actually believe this current time off doesn't involve his troublesome left knee do you?
The other scenario that involves Chicago still has J.O. and Nocioni as the centre-pieces, but Toronto would want Drew Gooden and Tyrus Thomas to boot, and would throw in a filler of their own for salary cap reasons. According to the source, the first Chicago scenario is what the Bulls want, where as the latter is what the Raps want.
So, another day and another couple of Toronto Raptors trade rumours for you to think about. Take them in and let them simmer for a bit. Then tell me what you think about all these rumours.
As always, good talking to you.