The Toronto Raptors enter the 2025-26 season determined to make a playoff push. After years stuck between rebuilding and competing, they signaled their intent by trading for Brandon Ingram last season.
With the Eastern Conference looking weaker, they have a real shot to rise in the standings.
Roster balance, health, and cap flexibility still raise concerns. Moving RJ Barrett could solve part of that puzzle, especially if they can land a reliable two-way piece like Derrick White from the Boston Celtics.
THIS IS A PREDICTION, NOT A REPORT.
More NBA Content From TWSN
John Wall: How speedy Time Forgets
Derrick Rose Should NOT Be In The Hall Of Fame
4 Most Underrated Players in the NBA for 2025
The Toronto Raptors Will Trade RJ Barrett to the Boston Celtics
Toronto put together an uninspiring 30-52 record in 2024-25, but the organization insists this marks only the beginning of a quick rebuild.
The front office has piled up young talent with Scottie Barnes and several promising rookies, while head coach Darko Rajakovic must turn that mix into a group with chemistry and stronger defense.
The Raptors’ preseason and early games will set the tone for rotations, spacing, and defensive schemes. At the same time, the front office continues to monitor the trade market to avoid wasting Barnes’ and Ingram’s prime years.
RJ Barrett’s Trade benefit
RJ Barrett keeps showing up in trade rumors. Reports indicate Toronto is willing to move him, mainly because of his $30 million salary and his up-and-down performances.
He can score and create, but his inconsistency and unclear fit make him one of the best candidates to be traded for a piece that balances the roster better.
RJ Barrett to the Celtics: Potential Trade Idea
Boston Celtics Receive: RJ Barrett, 2027 First-Round Pick
Toronto Raptors Receive: Derrick White
Why Derrick White Fits the Raptors
Derrick White established himself as one of the NBA’s most dependable guards. In the 2024-25 season, he put up 16.4 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game, while hitting 38.3 percent from three and 44.2 percent overall.
He built a reputation as an elite defender, earning All-Defensive Team honors, and his role in Boston’s 2024 championship run underscored his benefit.
Toronto could use exactly what White brings: a guard who defends multiple positions, knocks down threes, and creates as a secondary playmaker. He’d fit smoothly next to Barnes and Ingram, tightening up the perimeter defense and opening the floor on offense.
Why the Celtics Might Move White
The Celtics are struggling with salary-cap issues, especially after Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury and their early playoff exit last season. White’s four-year, $125.9 million contract, signed in 2024, adds extra financial strain, turning him into one of Boston’s most tradable players.
Boston has reportedly pursued trades for draft picks, and a package including Barrett’s scoring and a first-round pick could attract a team aiming to remain competitive while rebuilding for the future.
Barrett’s Fit in Boston
Barrett could excel in Boston as a second or third scorer. He performs best off the ball, cutting to the basket, scoring in transition, and capitalizing on catch-and-shoot chances.
Last season, he averaged about 21 points per game, but his efficiency and defense lagged limitations that could restrict his role on a defense-focused Celtics team.
If Boston brings in Barrett, they would likely use him as a high-upside role player rather than a centerpiece. His contract presents a challenge, but in the right role, Barrett could add valuable scoring depth and playoff experience.
Why This Trade Works
This trade helps both teams.
Toronto strengthens its defense and shooting by acquiring White, giving the Raptors a veteran guard who complements their core. Boston brings in a younger scorer in Barrett and secures future draft picks, helping them remain competitive despite injuries and salary constraints.
By trading Barrett for White, the Raptors signal a commitment to winning immediately while filling key roster gaps. The Celtics, meanwhile, pivot strategically without committing to a full rebuild.
About the Author
