5 Stars Jimmy Butler should quietly be recruiting to the Heat right now
By Tyler Watts
4. Pascal Siakam
The Raptors have several franchise-altering decisions to make before the trade deadline, but none bigger than what to do with Siakam. The two-time All-Star is in the final year of his contract, and the franchise can extend him. Siakam reportedly wants to stay, but no deal has materialized. If the Raptors are unwilling to pay him, it is time to move on.
The 6’8 forward has a unique skill set. He is averaging over 20 points per game for the fifth straight year plus handing out five assists and grabbing seven boards. Siakam can run the offense and get buckets in isolation. The Heat would have another creator and scorer with defensive versatility.
Floor spacing and fit would be question marks if they land Siakam. The two-time All-Star is shooting 19.8 percent from 3-point range this season and is a career 32.1 percent marksman. Can the Heat survive with multiple non-shooters on the floor? Siakam would have to fit in next to Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo too, which might not be easy given the trio's lack of shooting.
Pascal Siakam may be the top current player available before Feb. 8, but other stars will hit the market in short order. Could Jimmy Butler convince a star wing to join him in South Beach?