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The Raptors are interested in acquiring Poeltl, according to Stein.
The Raptors selected Poeltl ninth overall in the 2016 draft and later traded him to the Spurs as part of the Kawhi Leonard deal. He has spent four of his six NBA seasons in San Antonio.
Stein wrote in his newsletter that the Raptors have been looking for center upgrades for some time.
The Raptors are in a tough spot with their tax situation. It's not clear if the franchise would be willing to exceed the luxury tax threshold in a deal for Poeltl.
Poeltl agreed to a three-year, $27 million extension with the Spurs in 2020. He will make $9.4 million during the 2022-23 campaign, and he is making $8.25 million this season.
The Austrian is in the midst of his most productive season in the NBA, averaging a career-high 12.4 points, 8.8 rebound and 2.7 assists per game while shooting 59.7% from the field.
Poeltl is the top center in San Antonio, and he is in a starting lineup that includes Dejounte Murray, Keldon Johnson, and Doug McDermott. It's not clear if the Spurs would be comfortable elevating either Drew or Jock to a starting position.
The Raptors could definitely use an upgrade at the five. Precious Achiuwa, who is just 22 years old, is averaging 7.9 points, 7.5 rebound and 1.4 assists per game. The team could use some more experience and depth.
The Raptors have Khem Birch and Daniel Oturu. Birch has been limited by a nagging knee injury throughout the season.
Toronto has a 20-18 record. It's not surprising that the Raptors are ready to make a move at the trade deadline, they are just 6.5 games behind the Bulls.
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