Raptors & Nets trade rumors heat up for June 2025! Nets target Raptors' No. 9 pick for Cam Johnson. Could this reshape Toronto with Barnes & Ingram?
StatPro NBA Beat Reporter
Thursday brought a flurry of activity on the Raptors rumor front, and it's enough to get any fan's pulse racing! The most tantalizing whisper involves the Brooklyn Nets, who are reportedly keen on acquiring Toronto's coveted ninth overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. The potential return? A package headlined by sharpshooter Cam Johnson.
Cam Johnson averaged an impressive 18.8 points per game last season while shooting a blistering 39% from three-point range.
The buzz around the league suggests the Brooklyn Nets are making a serious play for the Raptors' No. 9 pick. In return, Toronto could potentially land forward Cam Johnson and the Nets' own No. 19 pick. Johnson, who put up 18.8 points per game last season on excellent 39% shooting from deep, offers exactly the kind of floor-spacing and defensive versatility that would complement Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram beautifully. Imagine that trio on the court – length, shooting, and playmaking. This isn't just a minor tweak; adding Johnson could significantly elevate the Raptors' offensive ceiling while providing a reliable veteran presence. The additional first-rounder at No. 19 would also give Masai Ujiri and Bobby Webster another valuable asset to play with.
While the Giannis Antetokounmpo dream remains a long shot for many, reports indicate the Raptors aren't putting all their eggs in one Greek basket. The front office is reportedly identifying at least three other 'big fish' as potential targets this summer. This signals a clear intent to make significant upgrades and compete at a high level sooner rather than later. While the names of these alternatives remain under wraps for now, it's exciting to know the Raptors are exploring multiple avenues to acquire star-level talent. It shows ambition and a proactive approach to team building, which is exactly what fans want to see.
On the draft front, the Raptors continued their due diligence by hosting Oregon Ducks wing TJ Bamba for a workout. Bamba, who also showcased his skills for the Milwaukee Bucks and Washington Wizards, styles himself as a defensive specialist with 3-and-D potential. While he's not currently appearing on major mock drafts, these individual workouts are crucial for unearthing players who might have slipped through the cracks. Bamba's path might initially lead to the G-League, where he can focus on honing his three-point shot, but his defensive mindset could make him an intriguing developmental piece for the Raptors 905, with an eye on future contributions to the main squad.
With the draft approaching and free agency on the horizon, the Raptors front office is clearly working overtime. Whether it's a blockbuster trade for a shooter like Johnson, a swing for a 'big fish,' or unearthing a hidden gem in the draft, one thing's for sure: this offseason is shaping up to be anything but dull for Raptors fans. Stay tuned!
