Storyline: Team upgrade. It’s the reason why GMs make big bucks. And Raptors’ GM, Masai Ujiri, has plenty of work ahead of him. Here’s our take on how the Raptors could take a big step up the NBA ladder. Written by James Cosman, COSCH Sports
Wait! Is there even an “East’s Elite” category? The 2016 offseason brings forth numerous challenges, some of which are very unfamiliar for the Toronto Raptors. Closely analyzing these challenges could uncover something that the Raptors haven’t been able to say for themselves since the great Mr. Carter soared as high as the CN Tower. It’s a shot at rostering a legitimate star. Uncommon ground is now being explored. Can the Raptors be a favourable destination for such a player?
Courtesy: Latinpost.com
It’s very well known who’s up for grabs during the (now underway) NBA offseason. Do I even have to say it? Let’s make this fun. Our favorite meal as a kid, the wholesome, cheesy goodness that is Kevin Durant is sure to stir the pot in our lives once again. And for the city of Toronto (and the country of Canada) it may be time to go all-in. Barring his decision to accept OKC’s Bird Rights (which they have to offer, right?), KD may choose to take his talents elsewhere to get over the championship hump.
So, Why Toronto?
1- To get out of the West: Although the Raptors made it to the “top 4” this year, many would argue almost all of the Western Conference playoff teams could have eliminated them in a 7-game series. KD relocating to the East could make for a much easier journey to the top.
2- Relationships have been formed: It has been said that Kevin Durant has several ties to the city and its current inhabitants, notably Kyle Lowry and Drake.
3- History: Hey, he was a Toronto Raptor/Vince fan growing up. Who wouldn’t want to take it upon themselves to help that very team back into the realm of basketball relevancy?
4- Key contributors testing the free agency waters could clear up considerable cap room: Demar Derozan and Bismarck Biyombo are as good as gone (sorry to be blunt). That leaves room to make a major move.
So, Why Not Toronto?
Let’s be real, KD is most likely not to take his talents North of the Border. The salary cap the organization would have to clear (to even pitch an offer) is quite large (although very doable by moving players like Jonas Valanciunas and Terrence Ross). Losing a key piece (Derozan and/or Biyombo) to do so would questionably put the Raptors a step (or two, or three) back of his current situation in OKC–regardless of conference strength and market size. More proven cities have the fire power to act in free agency this year. The talent and experience elsewhere is more enticing for a player who wants to win as he approaches the halfway point in his career.
Courtesy: thestar.com
So Durant is a long shot, although it’s refreshing that Toronto is now mentioned as a free agency destination. Demar Derozan and Bismack Biyombo are set to hit free agency and become some of the most coveted pieces in the second tier of players in terms of age and potential. So that will give the Raptors some flexibility regarding who they’ll be able to bring in.
Many would make this argument: if Toronto is going to lose out on Durant, they may as well go all-in on Demar. But that statement can be countered with the fact that Derozan hasn’t hit his peak even though he just had a career year.
The above doesn’t take away from the loaded free agency class that could catapult the Raptors. With the focus on the Raps power forward woes, it should be obvious that guys like Ryan Anderson, Harrison Barnes, and Jared Sullener are to be looked at for potential deals. But that won’t be the only void should they choose to move on from the DD era. Perhaps players like Bradley Beal or Nicolas Batum could be lured North.
The 2016 NBA Draft represents another hurdle. Since drafting what General Manager Masai Ujiri called “The Brazilian Kevin Durant,” Raptors’ fans have been sadly reminded of the drafts of old (I won’t remind you, you’re welcome). After all, was it a fluke that the 2nd Round rookie, Norman Powel, was able to emerge as he did at the end of the 2015-16 NBA Season and Playoffs? Who knows? But what is known is that the Raptors need to secure solid talent in this year’s Draft with their 9th pick (courtesy of the trade with the New York Knicks in July, 2013 in exchange for forward Andrea Bargnani). Perhaps a power forward or some help at a position they feel will be left with a void from free agency.
Courtesy: Bleacer Report
On to the positives, however! The Raptors have their highest first round selection since 2012, when they selected Terrence Ross at No. 8 overall. One year before that they selected Jonas Valanciunas at No. 5. Going back even further, the Raptors held the same No. 9 pick they hold this year to select Demar Derozan in 2009.
Could it be a major coincidence with the Raptors potentially replacing the player exploring free agency with the same pick in which he was selected? We shall soon find out. What we already know is what the Raptors may do with this pick: a) select a player to replace what they may lose, b) select a player to fill a need (if not addressed in free agency, a hole at PF still looms), or c) trade the No. 9 pick (maybe even in combination with their later No. 27 for a top 5… am I just talking crazy now?). Masai is known for making some wise decisions when it comes to trades, so all Raptors fans can do now is wait.
Courtesy: draftmanager.com
Let’s not forget a third way of acquiring talent … via trade! Could the Raps unload players who have yet to reach their potential, but who could be seen by other teams as potential fits? Terrence Ross and Jonas Valanciunas represent the most favorable in this method for acquiring talent. Yes, perhaps the Raptors and their fans have seen enough of what they like in JV, but true centers are sought after in this league, even though contending teams have done quite well recently without them. Other trade targets include Brooke Lopez (for some help at centre), Kenneth Faried (tied to Ujiri from his stint Denver), Paul Millsap (with Atlanta expected to take care of Al Horford) and, conversely, Al Horford (should the Hawks move on).
So do the Raptors watch two of their most prized possessions walk in hopes of landing a potential star? Do they even have a chance to land the great KD? Do they have a favourable enough team situation for a second-tier free agent to be attracted to replace what was lost? Can they get their No. 9 pick right? Can Toronto and Canada continue to climb like the great Drake?
The wait begins in the 6ix, but there have been worse views.
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