The Raptors Think They Have A Shot At Giannis Antetokounmpo In 2021

I can’t believe we’re really doing this. Two years out from free agency, the stories about Giannis Antetokounmpo free agency options will not stop. Yes, two years away. Teams are lining up for the shot to land the Greek Freak in 2021. Even the irrelevant Raptors think they have a chance to land him. Give me a break.

John Hollinger of The Athletic had the following:

“Oh, and did I mention — there is one giant, long-armed Greek shadow looming over every decision this franchise makes. Sources say the Raptors are likely to be one of the chief pursuers of Giannis Antetokounmpo if and when he hits the 2021 free-agent market, so any moves that eliminate the possibility of max cap space that summer would be extremely unlikely.”

Are the Raptors really delusional enough to think they have a chance? Well, let’s look at how they could possibly think this way. Giannis is an international player. The Raptors play in Canada. Perfect match? Let’s throw in one more nugget Raptors president Masai Ujiri reportedly helped Giannis and his family emigrate from Nigeria to Greece. Ujiri also tried to trade up in the draft to take him. Okay, now you’re starting to sell me. Giannis on the Raptors? It would appear that Toronto somehow has a shot even if you didn’t think they did.

At the end of the day, this probably will depend on the future success of the Bucks. Can Khris Middleton be the second best player on a championship team? That’s your question. If not, maybe Giannis Antetokounmpo gets frustrated and bolts. Imagine if Giannis actually signed with the Raptors? What a bizarre move that somehow makes sense?