Raptors looking to upgrade frontcourt, plan to keep Jakob Poeltl

The Raptors are signaling interest in upgrading their frontcourt, but Jakob Poeltl is not part of that conversation.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Toronto has indicated to potential trade partners that it is not looking to move Poeltl, even as it explores ways to add size up front. Poeltl signed an extension in the offseason and will become trade-eligible Jan. 7.

Poeltl’s production has dipped this season, averaging 10.1 points and 8.0 rebounds, his lowest marks since the 2020-21 campaign. However, Josh Lewenberg of TSN reports the center has been dealing with a nagging back issue, and Toronto would prefer to supplement the frontcourt rather than reshape it.

How aggressive the Raptors become could hinge on their performance in the coming weeks ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline, Fischer notes. The decision may come down to whether the team targets a depth addition or pursues a higher-impact move.

Fischer reports Toronto and Atlanta have shown the most interest in Mavericks big man Anthony Davis, though the Hawks are viewed as a longer shot. Lewenberg, echoing previous reporting from Michael Grange, suggests Toronto may have stronger interest in Dallas center Daniel Gafford and has already checked in on his availability. Magic center Goga Bitadze has also been mentioned as a possible target.

If the Raptors decide to aim higher, Fischer adds that Domantas Sabonis and Giannis Antetokounmpo would also draw interest should either become available.