In a significant move last month, the Toronto Raptors attempted to acquire veteran guard Jrue Holiday through a trade that included RJ Barrett and the ninth overall pick in the NBA Draft. The Raptors aimed to bolster their lineup by offering this substantial package, seeking to improve both their immediate competitiveness and future prospects.
The Raptors centered their offer around RJ Barrett’s $57.3 million contract, which spans the next two seasons. Despite Barrett’s undeniable talent at 25 years old, his inconsistent performances and hefty salary presented challenges for Toronto in negotiating the deal.
Celtics Opt for Financial Flexibility with Anfernee Simons Trade
The Boston Celtics decided against Toronto’s proposal and instead traded Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers, receiving Anfernee Simons in return. Simons’ salary of $27.7 million expires after this season, offering Boston a more flexible financial situation moving forward. This choice signaled the Celtics’ preference for managing long-term salary commitments cautiously, favoring the shorter-term cost of Simons over Barrett’s longer contract.
Evaluating RJ Barrett’s Position and Trade Appeal
Barrett has shown promise as a developing playmaker but continues to struggle with scoring consistency and defensive reliability. His inclusion in trade talks demonstrates Toronto’s recognition of his complicated status as an asset. Previous discussions involving Barrett occurred during trade deadline conversations with the New Orleans Pelicans, who ultimately selected a package excluding Barrett in favor of Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, and a first-round draft pick from the Raptors.
These outcomes underline Barrett’s uncertain trade value, despite his flashes of skill and youth.
Raptors’ Next Steps After Trade Setback
Toronto’s unsuccessful bid for Holiday draws attention to the complexities of NBA trade markets and roster building. Retaining their ninth draft pick, the Raptors selected Collin Murray-Boyles, a forward from South Carolina, signaling a commitment to adding young talent and potential to their squad.
Barrett’s future with Toronto will be closely watched. His ability to enhance consistency and overall contribution will affect whether he remains a core player or becomes part of future trade negotiations. Boston’s decision to choose Simons over Barrett highlights the Raptors’ need to reconsider strategies to optimize their resources and strengthen the team’s foundation.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Jrue Holiday wear 4?
A. According to Gary Washburn from the Boston Globe, Holiday shared during the Thursday morning shootaround that he made this decision because he has four siblings. Before deciding, he spoke with Isaiah Thomas, a former Boston player who wore the same number and once ranked fifth in the MVP race.
Q. Did Jrue Holiday have a ring?
A. In 2020, he joined the Milwaukee Bucks and won his first NBA championship with them in 2021. In 2023, he moved to the Boston Celtics through a trade involving the Portland Trail Blazers and won his second NBA title with the Celtics in 2024. In the 2025 offseason, he was traded back to Portland.