LOGIN

The Toronto Raptors caught everyone by surprise last season with their fifth place finish that allowed them to avoid the play-in completely. After losing rookie of the year Scottie Barnes to an ankle injury during the series against the Sixers it was the Raptors who were sent packing in six games. Fast forward to this season and well, like the good Doctor Dre said, “ain’t too much changed”. The team is still brimming over with long athletic 6’ 8″ and over players who can defend multiple positions and move with fluidity in coach Nick Nurse’s position-less offensive schemes.

Please, blog, may I have some more?
Newsletter

I don't have enough spam, give me the Razzball email newsletter!

The Toronto Raptors had a very disappointing 2020 season thanks to problems at the center position, injury woes, and no real home games. This offseason was a very important one for the Raptors, and thanks to the moves they made, 2021-22 will be a major improvement. From drafting very promising forward Scottie Barnes, resigning key players such as Gary Trent Jr. and Khem Birch, and getting a good return for Kyle Lowry, the Raptors are poised for substantial improvement.

Please, blog, may I have some more?

The Raptors took care of business by inking the undrafted Fred VanVleet to a 4-year, 85 million dollar deal that should keep him with the Dinos right through his prime. This was a key signing for the Raptors, as they positioned themselves to have a near all-star level talent firmly in place with their current all-star level guard (Kyle Lowry) on the final year of his contract.

Please, blog, may I have some more?

The defending NBA Champion Toronto Raptors (that has such a nice ring to it) return to defend their title with all the key pieces intact, except for the devastating loss of Danny Green. They’ll miss his defense, dead-eye shooting, and the occasional spectacular block. Outside of Green, there’s really no one else that the Raptors will miss as they ramp up for yet another successful year. Well, I suppose they miss JVal, Caboclo, and Wright, but those guys were dealt mid-season so they don’t really count for the the purpose of this exercise. Anyone else I forgot to mention?

Ok fine, I guess it’s about time I face reality and accept the fact that Kawhi is forever gone, taking his talents to La La Land. The Raps had a brilliant year and a historic playoffs run, but they will have to temper expectations this year. Kyle Lowry just turned 33 and one has to wonder how much gas he’s got left in the tank. Pascal Siakam is their young star, who leads a team full of hungry young guns and a few vets who can still contribute. Expect to Raps to be a playoff team, but I’m afraid the glory days are a thing of the past. Winter has come and gone, and so has the King of the North.

Please, blog, may I have some more?