Raptors President Masai Ujiri Apologizes To Pascal Siakam For Communication Gap Amid Trades

Photo: Instagram/Masai Ujiri

During the press conference on Thursday, Masai Ujiri, the president of the Toronto Raptors, expressed regret over the communication breakdown with Pascal Siakam, acknowledging a need for more openness during the 2023 offseason.

The apology came following the recent trades of Siakam to the Indiana Pacers and OG Anunoby to the New York Knicks. Ujiri stated, "Pascal deserved that I even gave him over-communication, which I didn't, and I apologized to him for it. That part, I'm not particularly proud of." 

Despite the challenges, he highlighted the strategic goals achieved through the trades, focusing on acquiring young players, picks, and maintaining flexibility for the future.

Photo: Instagram/Masai Ujiri

The decision to move Siakam and Anunoby, both approaching free agency, was attributed to factors like team dynamics, the emergence of Scottie Barnes, and the uncertainty of free agency.

Ujiri defended the previous trades and expressed patience, stating, "I believed in those players, I believed in what they brought. But now we have to look to the future."

With a potential abundance of draft picks, Ujiri emphasized flexibility, hinting at the possibility of trades rather than relying solely on the draft. The president also addressed the consideration of retaining Siakam, acknowledging the complex factors of fit, on-court dynamics, and financials.

As Toronto undergoes a rebuild, Ujiri praised incoming players from the trades, such as Bruce Brown, Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, Kira Lewis Jr., and Jordan Nwora. While committing to playing to win, he affirmed readiness for any scenario and expressed a dedication to building around the emerging talent of Scottie Barnes. (Source: CBS Sports)

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