Wed, Jul 29, 2009 at 12:00am

RAPS GET BELINELLI

The Toronto Raptors acquired shooting guard Marco Belinelli from the Golden State Warriors for forward Devean George.

What does it give the Toronto Raptors
This is a great deal for the Raptors on several levels. Not only does Belinelli give the team a potential future star at a position where they have long needed more youth and production, but he is a very nice fit for the Raps' up-tempo style. Belinelli is also a nice clubhouse add since he is also a teammate of rising Raptors star Andrea Bargnani on the Italian national squad. Toronto was widely expected to sign restricted free agent swingman Carlos Delfino back from Russia, but Belinelli may have more upside (and this deal doesn't necessarily mean Delfino won't be a Raptor again eventually).

What does it give the Golden State Warriors
George doesn't have the potential of Belinelli but the Warriors were overstocked with talented shooting guards who need playing time. Their drafting of Stephen Curry pushed Belinelli down the depth chart, making his chances of playing regularly less likely. This deal gives Golden State a little more depth up front and clarifies their backcourt situation a little more (although down the road they may regret giving up a player with Belinelli's talent-level and skill-set).

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Toronto Raptors

Marco Belinelli G/F

Golden State Warriors

Devean George F