NBA Rumors: Raptors, Anthony Davis, Hawks, Kristaps Porzingis, Warriors

Raptors

If there’s real traction anywhere on the Anthony Davis front, it appears to be in Toronto.

Appearing on the DLLS Mavs podcast, NBA insider Marc Stein said the Raptors have shown the most legitimate interest among the Eastern Conference teams that have been linked to the Mavericks big man.

“Toronto has definitely registered interest,” Stein said. “That is for certain.”

Stein added that Atlanta’s involvement has been more exploratory and that Detroit’s interest has likely been overstated.

Michael Scotto of HoopsHype echoed that sentiment, also describing the Hawks’ interest as exploratory and noting that the Pistons don’t appear eager to make a major in-season splash.

None of that means a deal is imminent. Scotto reports Dallas is still evaluating Davis’ health, his fit alongside Cooper Flagg, and what kind of impact he can realistically have on winning with the current roster.

Scotto also confirmed a prior report from Jake Fischer that Toronto has had interest in Kings center Domantas Sabonis. That interest dates back to the summer and is not active at the moment, but it is worth noting that Kings general manager Scott Perry drafted RJ Barrett in New York and remains fond of him.

Toronto has quietly gauged Barrett’s market value, sources told HoopsHype.

Hawks

Kristaps Porzingis remains very much in play.

Despite inconsistent availability due to health issues, Porzingis’ $30.7 million expiring contract gives Atlanta a useful trade chip. Scotto reports the Hawks are expected to test the market on Porzingis as they explore ways to upgrade the roster.

As for Anthony Davis, Atlanta continues to monitor the situation, but league sources still characterize that interest as exploratory rather than aggressive.

Warriors

Could Golden State ever entertain the idea of trading Jimmy Butler or Draymond Green?

Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area did not rule it out entirely, but stressed that any such move would require Stephen Curry’s full buy-in.

“I would not say it’s impossible,” Poole said. “Right now it still seems improbable.”

To this point, Butler and Green have only surfaced in trade chatter tied to one name, Giannis Antetokounmpo. And unless that door cracks open, Golden State appears content to keep its core intact.