<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Doug Smith answers your Raptors questions. This week's themes: A little light this week so why do people want to trade Jose, the old giddy reader is back and, yes, MoPete was greater than Tracy for the time each spent in Toronto. Q: Last week I inquired about Bargnani and his reported back problems. Now I keep looking at the EuroBasket 07 website and there is still reports of Bargnani missing games with Italy due to persisting back problems. You seem to chat with BC from time to time. Has he mentioned anything about this? Is he aware of these reports (I'm guessing he is)? Should Bargnani not play in the EuroBasket? Bosh pulled out for precautionary reasons, shouldn't Bargnani do the same. Back problems at Bargnani's age – that is something to worry about, isn't it? Doug, some insight please! Gary Vargas, Toronto A: Yes, he missed some games. Yes, his back is a bit sore. No, it's not unusual for teams to keep key players out of exhibition games immediately before big tournaments. No, it's nothing you need to get worked up about. Yes, the Raptors know about it. No, they are not overly concerned. And finally, yes, he should be fine for the start of training camp. Q: Love the column, but one thing I've noticed is that you get a lot questions about trading Jose C. Why? I think his game has improved big time the last few years, why don't Raps see that? Also, if there was a Raptors player on the roster that you would want to see traded who would that be and what would you get in return or to replace? Joe Dobner, Winnipeg A: You noticed? If you can figure it out, let me know; it's apparent that a whole whack of fans are not exactly enthralled of having two starter-calibre point guards. But, trust me, the Raptors see the value and aren't about to move Calderon unless it's the perfect deal and that hasn't been offered yet. One player to deal? I don't think there's anyone I'd want to see dealt. This is a pretty good mix of players and personalities. If there are one or two I think will be dealt, it'd be Juan Dixon and Joey Graham. Both have manageable contracts and enough upside that some other GM might think they're worth taking a risk on.</div> The Toronto Star
