Raptors-Nets RJ Barrett Trade Report Drops on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Ayomide P. Adeduyite | Last updated Jun 24, 2025 5:25 PM ET

RJ Barrett emerged as the Toronto Raptors' top performer this past season, averaging 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. Since arriving in a midseason trade from the New York Knicks, Barrett quickly became a go-to scoring option for Toronto and often carried the offensive load. Despite his efforts, the Raptors finished 11th in the East with a 30-52 record and missed the playoffs for a third straight year, but now hold the 9th overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.

Looking to return to contention next season, Toronto is building a new core around Brandon Ingram, whom they recently acquired in a blockbuster deal with the New Orleans Pelicans. However, that ambition may now come at the cost of one of their most consistent players.

According to NBA insider Brett Siegel , a potential trade between Toronto and the Brooklyn Nets is looming—a deal that would likely send Barrett and the 9th pick to Brooklyn. No other details have yet been confirmed, but the talks are reportedly gaining traction.

Siegel wrote, "Is there a potential trade brewing between the Nets and Raptors that could see Barrett and the ninth pick go to Brooklyn? This is something many around the league are keeping an eye on, as there is no guarantee Toronto will keep the ninth pick in this year's draft."

There is a potential trade brewing between the Nets and Raptors that could see RJ Barrett and the 9th pick going to the Brooklyn Nets, per @BrettSiegelNBA

(https://t.co/FEpLZj17Af) pic.twitter.com/NQOSSkJrFT
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) June 24, 2025

On paper, the move could work well for both teams. The Nets, in the midst of a reset, would gain a young, reliable scorer in Barrett and a top-10 pick to further their rebuild. For Toronto, it’s a chance to clear cap space and potentially gain a win-now piece to pair with Scottie Barnes and Ingram as they eye a postseason return.

Since arriving from New York in the OG Anunoby trade, Barrett has embraced a lead role and impressed with his improved efficiency. While he’s beloved by many in Canada as a native son, the Raptors appear ready to make bold moves—leaving Barrett’s future with the team very much in doubt.