Terrence Jones
There have been no strong links between Terrence Jones and the Raptors, but if there’s a way to land the Rockets’ forward, the Raptors could find their starting power forward for years to come. Jones is a mobile big who does well on defensive rotations and does a decent job on the glass. His downfall is that he’s a below average 3-point (35.1%) and free-throw (60%) shooter. Jones only played 27 mpg last season, but as a starter, he could easily be a 15-10 guy.
Jones has a really solid interior game offensively. He can finish inside and has an explosive first step which catches opposing power forwards off guard. He has an insane 7’2 wingspan, works his tail off, and is a menace when it comes to cleaning up the rim and getting offensive put-backs.
Although his three-point shooting isn’t exactly feared – Jones can still stretch the floor and draw out interior defenders. Plus, his shot is something that can still be worked on. If Amir Johnson can develop a three-point shot seemingly over the course of a season as a starting power forward, it’s not far-fetched to think a young player who already has the mechanics, to improve into a respectable three-point threat.
Houston already has another great prospect in Donatas Motiejunas at the four, which makes Jones more expendable. But realistically, what do the Raptors have to offer the Rockets? The Rockets will be looking to strengthen their back-court. They need a shooter / scorer-type player who can fill in to take pressure off Harden, and score when Harden is on the bench.
The Raptors have no such player that is expendable, really. Unless you’re willing to package fresh meat like Delon Wright or future draft picks, I don’t think Houston even looks at the offer sheet. Theoretically, a straight up Luke Ridnour + Delon Wright for Terrence Jones would work, but the chances of Houston taking it seriously are slim.
To remind you, here is what the Raptors have in terms of draft picks.
2016 1st round draft pick from New York (worse of Denver/New York)
2017 1st round draft pick from Los Angeles (via Milwaukee Vasquez Trade)
2017 2nd round draft pick from New York (Bargnani trade)
The 2016 pick is an absolute gold mine. The Knicks are going to be awful – again. That’s a potential lottery pick right there. The other two picks are in the air at this point, but I imagine both will be high. The only circumstance where Masai Ujiri should trade the 2016 pick is to acquire a bonafide star. Anything less would be a waste of assets. I don’t believe Masai will touch that pick unless it’s truly a profitable return.