Boston Celtics: 3 stars Cs could pursue if they start season off slowly

Boston Celtics star trade target #3: Pascal Siakam

The Toronto Raptors lost their heart and soul and the greatest player in their franchise’s history this past offseason when Kyle Lowry decided to sign with the Miami Heat to chase another championship.

His departure could keep the Raps out of the postseason for the time being despite the talent that’s left on the roster.

The reason? Pascal Siakam is their best player, and he might not be good enough to lead a team to the playoffs.

Siakam’s scoring eclipsed 20 points per game for the second straight season following the departure of Kawhi Leonard in 2020-21, but his 3-point shooting fell off a cliff, below 30% once again after two seasons of 36+% shooting.

His supporting cast can help keep Siakam relevant as a threat down low, but capable defenses will pack the paint and make his life difficult. Fred VanVleet, Goran Dragic, Gary Trent Jr. and O.G. Anunoby might not be enough offense to overcome that most nights.

Siakam as the third option has won a championship before. In Boston, he’d be in his element on a team with arguably more talent with him in tow than the 2018-19 NBA Champion Toronto Raptors.