The Goran Dragic era in Toronto is close to ending before it had a chance to start.
According to Doug Smith of the Toronto Sun, the Raptors guard hasn’t been with the team since Nov. 13 because of what was announced as a family matter.
Statement from GM Bobby Webster on Goran Dragic. pic.twitter.com/g9oJxtsAhp
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) November 28, 2021
Since the Dragon went on his leave of absence, the question is not about if he would be moved, but to what team and who would be involved in that package ahead of the Feb. 10 deadline.
According to Smith, that deal is coming sooner than later for the former All-Star.
“According to multiple NBA sources, granted anonymity because nothing has been finalized, the Raptors are finding great interest in a myriad of differently structured deals for the veteran point guard, and he is almost certain to be dealt near the Feb. 10 NBA trade deadline…
“No names were clear in conversations with sources here on the weekend, but it is clear that 10 days out from the deadline, general manager Bobby Webster and president/vice-chairman Masai Ujiri are being proactive in seeking deals.”
Dragic is in the last year of his contract that pays $19.4 million this season. The 35-year-old point guard has made it clear that he wasn’t happy about the trade from Miami, stating that he was not interested in staying with the Toronto Raptors long-term and that he has “higher ambitions.” He later apologized for the comments.
The Raptors want to get below the luxury tax line and trade for a player with a cheaper salary season for another year or two.
With rumors that Goran Dragic wants to play in Dallas to back up Luka Doncic, look for the team that acquires Dragic to buy him out.
