The Toronto Raptors have received some trade inquiries for veteran wing RJ Barrett, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
Scotto reported the 26-year-old has been included in “multi-team conversations.”
Barrett averaged 19.3 points on 49.1 percent shooting in 2025-26. He set career highs in true shooting percentage (58.5) and effective field-goal percentage (55.0), per Basketball Reference, so it was his most efficient scoring season yet.
Barrett is nothing it not consistent. While he hasn’t made a true breakthrough, he has maintained a steady baseline in terms of his offense through seven years.
From a trade standpoint, his expiring contract makes him even more valuable. He earns $29.6 million next season before he’s an unrestricted free agent. That kind of money can be helpful toward balancing the books in a blockbuster swap.
Raptors executive vice president Bobby Webster told reporters in May the team intends to wait on having any serious negotiations with Barrett over an extension.
“We’re going to keep all of those conversations private,” he said. “I spoke to him throughout the season and at the end of the season. The good thing is he’s under contract, so that’s also something we can talk about at the end of next season.”
Toronto has committed big money to Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley and Jakob Poeltl already, and Brandon Ingram could opt in to his $41.9 million salary for 2027-28. Those investments will factor into any deliberations the front office has about Barrett’s next deal.
Making the playoffs this year was an improvement for the Raptors after missing the postseason for three straight seasons, and they pushed the Cleveland Cavaliers to seven games.
Still, few would consider the team to be a serious championship contender as currently constructed. Re-signing Barrett to a nine-figure contract would risk doubling down on a core with a limited ceiling.
Perhaps Webster can flip Barrett for an upgrade or get some cap relief ahead of opening night. Otherwise, refraining from extending him now would give team officials more time to gauge his overall value.
