According to recent reports by Doug Smith, the Toronto Raptors are expected to trade Bruce Brown next month. The Raptors will not wait until next season to trade Brown. Smith mentioned that the team is waiting for the 2024 NBA Draft, scheduled for 26-27 June next month.
“The Raptors have until June 29 (two days after the draft) to exercise an option on the $23 million (U.S.) he’s owed next season — a valuable expiring contract to put on the market. The sense from a handful of league sources is that the Raptors are likely to pick up the option, then turn around and deal Brown quickly rather than wait until the 2025 trade deadline.” Doug Smith wrote in his report.
An Underwhelming Season for Bruce Brown
Toronto will have some flexibility this summer because of Brown’s team option. The team can terminate Brown’s deal, part ways with Gary Trent Jr., and free up almost $30 million in salary cap for the summer’s free agency. However, they won’t be able to sign any top free agents.
After being acquired by the Raptors, there were rumors of Brown being involved in a February trade with the Atlanta Hawks, but it didn’t work out. Brown finished the season averaging 10.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists for the Raptors.
If the Raptors cannot reach an agreement with him this summer, they may pursue negotiations with Brown before next year’s trade deadline.
