Reports: Toronto Raptors roster blowup could be coming as teams start calling about core players

The Toronto Raptors roster is full of exciting pieces. Fresh off a season that saw Toronto finish 48-34, the Raptors looked to be trending up.

It's been a tough start to the season for Toronto (14-18). Before Wednesday night's 113-106 win over the New York Knicks, the Raptors were in the midst of a six-game losing streak.

Toronto has a roster that features a plethora of talent. After a sensational rookie season from Scottie Barnes in 2021-22, it looked as if the Raptors were on the verge of taking a leap forward. That idea has since cooled down, and the Raptors could be a team open for business around the NBA's February trade deadline.

In a recent article by Josh Lewenberg of TSN, it appears that rival teams are already reaching out to Toronto. Lewenberg reported that teams have started to inquire about the availability of Toronto's "core players."

“The vultures are already circling," Lewenberg wrote. "If the losses continue to pile up, people are wondering whether the Raptors would consider pulling the plug on this season, or even take a more drastic measure. It’s not just fans. Sensing blood in the water, teams have started calling Toronto to inquire into the availability of its core players."

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NBA teams calling regarding Toronto Raptors roster

Pascal Siakam could be a piece to watch out for with the Toronto Raptors roster.

While the Toronto Raptors roster is rich with talent, it hasn't produced wins during the 2022-23 season.

There's still plenty of time for Toronto to get back on the right track, but the Raptors also have a rare opportunity to acquire assets for some of their key players. One player who has been thriving for the Raptors is forward Pascal Siakam. The 28-year-old forward has one year remaining on his contract after this season and is set to make $37.8 million in 2023-24.

Siakam has been sensational this year. He's averaging 26.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 1.0 steals per game. He's shooting 48.8%, including 34.8% from 3-point range.

Another player to monitor is forward OG Anunoby. Still just 25 years old, Anunoby could be one of the most valuable trade assets the Raptors have. Anunoby is having another strong season, averaging 18.6 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 2.1 apg and 2.3 spg. He is set to make $18.6 million next season and has a player option in 2024-25 for $19.9 million.