NBA Notes: Raptors, Jakob Poeltl, Blazers, Jerami Grant, Thunder

Raptors

Frontcourt depth continues to loom as a concern for the Raptors

Michael Grange of Sportsnet argues that Toronto can’t simply wait and hope that Jakob Poeltl’s back issues resolve themselves. Instead, Grange suggests the front office should be looking to add center depth in a more modest way, rather than swinging big.

That likely rules out a pursuit of Anthony Davis, whom Grange believes is unlikely to be moved by the Mavericks anyway. A more practical solution, he writes, would be targeting a dependable backup big, either via trade or free agency.

One option could come from outside the NBA. Veteran center Mo Bamba is currently playing in the G League, and Grange floated the idea of Toronto exploring a 10-day contract later in the season to help stabilize the position.

The Raptors may also need more shooting. In his latest mailbag, Eric Koreen of The Athletic notes that Toronto could look into wings who may be available, mentioning names such as Quentin Grimes, Keon Ellis, and Collin Sexton as possible fits.

Trail Blazers

Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant missed a third straight game Tuesday, and there is now added clarity regarding the issue.

As Sean Highkin of Rose Garden Report noted on social media, the team has updated Grant’s injury designation from left Achilles soreness to left Achilles tendinitis. Grant has been viewed around the league as a potential in-season trade candidate, making the injury worth monitoring as the deadline approaches.

Thunder

Despite dropping three of their past five games following a blistering 24-1 start, the Thunder are not viewed as a team in need of immediate action.

Rylan Stiles of SI.com argues that Oklahoma City would be better served standing pat at the trade deadline rather than risking the chemistry of a tightly connected roster for a marginal upgrade.

Stiles points to internal growth as the more logical path forward, including Ajay Mitchell continuing to settle into his role and Jalen Williams rounding back into form after offseason wrist surgery.