The Raptors have reportedly resisted trading or buying out Goran Dragic, whom they acquired in the (almost certainly still-on) Kyle Lowry sign-and-trade.
Toronto general manager Bobby Webster, via Josh Lewenberg of TSN:
“Obviously, if we got an offer that was too good to refuse we’d listen but ultimately we want Goran here,” Webster said. “He’s happy to be here
Did anyone tell Dragic?
Zoran Savin (hat tip: Brad Townsend of The Dallas Morning News):
Dragic (35) isn’t a natural fit as Toronto builds long-term around Scottie Barnes (20), OG Anunoby (24), Fred VanVleet (27) and probably/maybe Pascal Siakam (27).
But those incumbent Raptors are way too good just to tank. Toronto could use a solid point guard like Dragic to replace Lowry in a bid to return to the playoffs next season (if that even interests the Raptors).
On an expiring $19.44 million contract, Dragic holds limited power. If he offered to surrender enough money in a buyout, perhaps Toronto would accommodate him..
But the Raptors would prefer positive return on a trade (which would also allow Dragic to keep his entire salary, though not control of his destination).
Wanting a trade from the Suns 2015, Dragic publicly blasted Phoenix’s front office. It worked. The Suns traded him to Miami. He later expressed regret for the comments, nearly admitting he was exaggerating to incite a deal.
So, we’ll see whether Dragic again agitates for a move. But that’s his best leverage at this point.
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Goran Dragic says he prefers not to stay with Raptors originally appeared on NBCSports.com