Roadblock could ruin Atlanta Hawks’ potential trade for Toronto Raptors’ Pascal Siakam

The 2023 NBA Draft is just wrapped up, and as expected, trade rumors are swirling throughout the league, one team that is making headlines with their potential big move is the Atlanta Hawks. According to various reports, the Hawks have had their sights set on Pascal Siakam, the talented forward from the Toronto Raptors, as their primary target in the offseason.

Siakam is coming off a remarkable season with the Raptors, where he showcased his skills and cemented his status as one of the best players in the league.

With an impressive average of 24.2 points per game, 7.8 rebounds per game, and 5.8 assists per game, Siakam proved his versatility and impact on the court. His shooting percentage of 48% further solidified his position as an elite player.

The Hawks appear determined to acquire Siakam and form a formidable “Big 3”.

Reports suggest that the Hawks have explored various trade scenarios and have even considered involving other teams in multi-team deals to secure Siakam’s services.

High valuation of Pascal Siakam a potential roadblock for Atlanta Hawks

While the Hawks are eager to bring Siakam on board, the Raptors’ valuation of the player has posed a significant obstacle in reaching a deal. The Raptors have set a high price for Siakam, and their unwillingness to settle for anything less has made negotiations challenging for the Hawks and other interested teams.

According to Yahoo! Sports’ Jake Fischer, “Opposing front offices still believe the Raptors’ high valuation of their players, such as Siakam and OG Anunoby, marks the biggest roadblock to any potential trade of either Raptor.”

Although the Raptors have not completely ruled out the possibility of trading Siakam, they are adamant about receiving substantial compensation in return. They are looking for nothing short of a “king’s ransom” if they are to part ways with their prized forward. This firm stance from the Raptors suggests that any potential trade involving Siakam will require a significant offer from interested parties.

With the NBA Draft in the rearview, the clock is ticking for the Hawks and other teams looking to make a deal for Siakam. The draft presented a unique opportunity for teams to leverage their picks and assets to entice the Raptors into a trade. As the draft approached, the dynamics of trade negotiations could quickly change, potentially bringing the Hawks and Raptors closer to a resolution.

None came but that does not mean the Hawks and Raptors cannot come to an agreement this offseason.

The question is whether or not it would even be worth it.