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Raptors reportedly want Nerlens Noel

If Nerlens Noel remains with the 76ers this summer,  it won't be because other teams are uninterested.

ESPN  is reporting that the  Toronto Raptors have contacted the Sixers about sending a rotation player, possibly Terrence Ross, and other add-on players in exchange for the center. The Raptors are reportedly eyeing the 6-foot-11, 225-pounder as a backup center.

Toronto is aware that it could lose backup center Bismack Biyombo in free agency.  The Raptors are looking for insurance in case Biyombo leaves.  Ross is a backup swingman who is scheduled to make $10 million next season.

Releasing his salary and that of the add-on players could enable the Raptors to target a swingman in free agency.

Noel is slotted to make $4.3 million next season. He will become a restricted free agent after the season unless the Sixers negotiate an extension by the Oct. 31 deadline.

The Sixers are shopping Noel and center Jahlil Okafor with the hope of balancing out their roster.  They are overcrowded at center.

Follow and contact 76ers beat writer Keith Pompey on Twitter @PompeyOnSixers and on Instagram at PompeyOnSixers.