Former Indiana Pacers guard Bruce Brown, now with the Toronto Raptors, is poised to become one of the most coveted names on the buyout market—if Toronto fails to trade him before the trade deadline. NBA trades, February 6. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Raptors are “very motivated” to trade Brown and his $23 million salary, especially after trading Pascal Siakam to Indiana earlier this season.
Raptors’ urgency to trade Brown
Fischer reported that Toronto is actively pursuing a trade for Brown, hoping to maximize their return after trading Siakam. “The Raptors are highly motivated to trade Brown and his $23 million salary, sources said, in hopes of increasing the return from the Pascal Siakam trade to Indiana on Jan. 17, 2024. If none If a trade comes to fruition involving Brown, he would surely be in high demand as a buyout candidate.”
Toronto’s urgency to trade Brown stems from the limited market for expensive players recovering from injuries. Brown underwent right knee surgery in September and played only nine games this season, making his debut in late December. Teams interested in a trade for the 28-year-old are reportedly waiting to see if he can return to the form that made him indispensable during the Denver Nuggets’ 2023 championship run.
Bruce Brown: From a Champion to a Trading Piece
Brown’s journey since helping Denver win its first NBA title has been a tumultuous one. His elite play on both ends of the court during the Nuggets’ championship run earned him a lucrative two-year, $45 million contract with the Pacers in 2023. However, after a disappointing stint with Indiana, Brown was included in the trade that sent Pascal Siakam to Indiana, landing him in Toronto.
Now, with Toronto in rebuild mode, the Raptors are exploring every avenue to get rid of Brown’s high salary. His $23 million team option for this season, which the Raptors exercised, makes him a significant trade asset — or a tempting buyout target for suitors.
-Contenders revolve around Brown
If no trade comes to fruition, several suitors, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets, are expected to pursue Brown in the buyout market. Both teams have a clear need for a versatile defender and second scorer, and Brown fits that profile perfectly.
The Lakers, in particular, have been aggressive in their search for reinforcements, and Brown’s ability to defend multiple positions while contributing offensively would bolster their playoff aspirations. Meanwhile, a reunion with the Nuggets could revitalize his career, allowing Brown to flourish in a familiar system where he excelled.
Is Brown still a deciding factor?
Although Brown has yet to find his stride this season, his talent remains undeniable. He averaged 11.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists while shooting 36.8 percent from distance during Denver’s championship run. Even though he’s not quite at his best, his ability to elevate a contender’s defense and add depth makes him a highly sought-after commodity.
Toronto’s decision regarding Brown will have a significant impact on its market. Whether through a trade or buyout, Brown’s next destination could play a crucial role in the playoff picture.
