NBA Trade Rumors: Jordan Clarkson Getting Attention, Share Of Suitors

The Toronto Raptors could use more guards with a reliable offense, and Jordan Clarkson of the Cleveland Cavaliers is looming as a sensible target. So far, the Fil-American pro cager has been coming up with big games for his team, a development that could make head coach Nick Nurse put him into consideration.

Clarkson's latest performance is a good example. He is coming off a 26-point night in a loss by the Cavs to the Indiana Pacers, 123-115, CBS Sports reported. Cleveland is in rebuild mode, and it remains to be seen if the 26-year-old would be part of their future plans. Then again, the Cavs' top brass would not mind listening to offers, Clarkson included.

The Raptors have had their share of struggles. Kyle Lowry is back in harness, and Fred VanVleet did do a decent job holding the fort in the absence of the 32-year-old all-star guard. During that time, it was beyond question that the Raptors lacked the scoring sock from the backcourt. VanVleet is averaging 10.5 points, 2.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists this season.

Clarkson has slightly better numbers with 14.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. However, it his explosiveness and ability to go off that deserves special consideration for the Raptors.

A look at the Eastern Conference standings shows the Raptors at the top of the heap with a 31-12 win-loss record, followed closely by the Milwaukee Bucks who sport a 28-11 record. But the real story is the postseason wars. In the past years, the Raptors have been known to perform well in the regular season but fall short when NBA playoff time comes. Will getting Clarkson alleviate all that?

Toronto could dangle Greg Monroe, C.J. Miles, Malachi Richardson and a future second-round pick, King James Gospel suggested. Initially, that trade option may seem too much, but the combined minutes given by Toronto makes sense.

The Cavs could package David Nwaba with Clarkson to Toronto. Miles could be of better use to the Cavs unless Cleveland opts to dump all of them either through buyout or waiving them. In essence, it may be Richardson and the future pick that would be of value to the rebuilding Cavs. Do take note that the 23-year-old 22nd pick of the 2016 NBA Draft carries numbers that are hardly impressive, meaning he may get waived as well.

This Jordan Clarkson trade is only a suggested option, but there is no denying that he has been getting attention. With the Cavs trying to build a new identity, it all depends on what Larry Drew and the team owners have running in their minds.