#masai-ujiri

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Raptors Rapture
5 months ago
Chicago Bulls

3 former Toronto Raptors thriving elsewhere to start 2023-24

Masai Ujiri is willing to make changes to the Toronto Raptors in order to get back to the playoffs.
Former Raptors players are finding success in new teams.
DeMar DeRozan is thriving with the Chicago Bulls despite their struggles. [ more ]
Toronto Raptors
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA Draft Grades 2022: Re-grading Raptors pick one year later

As the Toronto Raptors get prepared to finally make a decision on who they should select in the 2023 NBA Draft, it is worth remembering that this organization has had a history of (largely) drafting well and developing their own talent.With their lone draft choice last year, No. 33 overall, the Raptors took Arizona center Christian Koloko.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Toronto Raptors 2023 Draft: Keyonte George or Jalen Hood-Schifino?

The Toronto Raptors may be making a franchise-altering decision next Thursday at the NBA Draft.With Fred VanVleet already opting out of his contract and preparing for a rich payday in free agency, Gary Trent Jr. may do the same thing.In some quarters, it's believed Toronto will lose both guards creating a huge hole in the team's backcourt.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA Mock Draft: Raptors linked to 2 different high-scoring guards

The Toronto Raptors are starting to finalize their NBA Draft plans, as workouts are starting to flow in and the hiring of Darko Rajakovic has finally been confirmed.As such, the NBA mock draft predictors could be closer to zeroing in on whomever Toronto is going to select at No. 13 overall.While some intriguing forwards are out there, Masai Ujiri and Bobby Webster will likely add a guard that can come right in and be an impact player for Toronto.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA Twitter, Toronto Raptors fans react to Darko Rajakovic hire

The Toronto Raptors became the last team to hire their head coach for the 2023-24 season, choosing to replace Nick Nurse with Darko Rajakoivic.The second Serbian head coach in NBA history, Rajakovic spent the last few seasons as an assistant with the Memphis Grizzlies.Rajakovic has been coaching in America for over a decade, splitting his time between the Tulsa 66ers of the G League and nine straight years as an assistant with the Thunder, Suns, and Grizzlies.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Pros and Cons of Raptors making a run at signing Chris Paul

The Toronto Raptors, like the rest of the NBA, had to be stunned when they saw the latest transaction hit the waiver wire.Chris Paul, who was projected to be a member of the Phoenix Suns' push for yet another championship run, could be looking for work.According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Suns will either try to find some sort of trade for Paul or waive him as they try to start from scratch around Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Paul George gives Scottie Barnes' defense an incredible compliment

The Toronto Raptors must be extremely pleased with the early returns surrounding top young player Scottie Barnes, as he has quickly evolved into a player with so much talent on both ends of the court that some want to blow up the current roster and transition solely to a Barnes-led era.While Barnes' playmaking on offense has drawn praise from all corners of the NBA world, his defense hasn't necessarily been everything fans thought it would be.
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Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Raptors star Pascal Siakam targeted by Hawks

The Toronto Raptors have been bombarded with a ceaseless deluge of trade rumors in the offseason, with players like Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby ranking among those who have been thrown into the rumor mill as many Raptors fans try to kickstart a hypothetical rebuild.While trading Siakam would be the surest sign that this team is headed for a rebuild, he would also recoup the most in any sort of trade.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Raptors signing Jakob Poeltl far from a sure thing

After trading a future first-round draft choice to acquire Jakob Poeltl from the San Antonio Spurs, the Toronto Raptors were widely expected to keep the Austrian big man in town long-term.When he performed better than most expected, it seemed like a virtual certainty he would return long-term.While Poeltl was unable to get the Raptors into the playoffs, and many rightfully criticized Masai Ujiri for buying at a time when they could have capitalized on some of their incumbent players, he did make their defense borderline elite when he was on the floor and fixed one of their biggest issues.
Raptors HQ
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Toronto Raptors select Memphis Grizzlies assistant Darko Rajakovic as new head coach

The wait is over!On Saturday afternoon, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Toronto Raptors would hire Darko Rajakovic as the franchise's next head coach.Rajakovic's resume includes head coaching for the NBA G League, and assistant gigs in Oklahoma City and Phoenix before his most recent gig with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Kyle Lowry breaks silence, talks Raptors trading him to Heat

Toronto Raptors fans have a clear rooting interest in the NBA Finals, as Miami Heat point guard Kyle Lowry is eyeing his second championship ring.Even though he is not starting following a demotion to the bench, the future Hall of Famer is taking that new role in stride as he tries to help his team win.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors draft: 3 switchable prospects Masai Ujiri will love

Masai Ujiri and the Toronto Raptors have adhered to a very strict philosophy in the last decade of drafting.Most of their NBA Draft picks have been made off the notion that drafting the best athlete possible was a more effective use of their resources than drafting someone for immediate need.While many mock drafters and Raptors fans are pleading for the organization to use one of their picks on a guard that can make an impact as a scorer, Ujiri is not going to jeopardize the possibility of adding someone who fits his vision for a player that might not have as high of a ceiling.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Are Raptors eyeing Bilal Coulibaly after latest draft promise rumor?

The Toronto Raptors may not appear to have learned from the last few seasons, as Masai Ujiri might be right back to his old tricks and ready to draft another positionless wing with an eye on internal development.This time around, the player he's eyeing in the 2023 NBA Draft just might be French wing Bilal Coulibaly.
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Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors draft: 1 prospect at every position to target in lottery

The Toronto Raptors still have not given off any indication of what direction they will go in during the 2023 NBA Draft.Masai Ujiri and the rest of the front office continue to be incredibly tight-lipped about what positions and players they may target with their lone selection.Conventional wisdom would suggest that Ujiri and the Raptors could try to fix their lack of terrific shooting by drafting a dynamic guard at No. 13 overall.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors' coaching search might lead to assistant coach exodus

The Toronto Raptors remain the only team in the league without a head coach, as Masai Ujiri is coming up on almost two months without bringing in someone who could be a replacement for Nick Nurse.As such, the Raptors are at risk of seeing their current staff decimated by departures.With some reports claiming they will wait more than a week before their final chance at interviewing Sergio Scariolo, it's fair to say that Toronto is not bothered at all when it comes to finding a replacement.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Ranking the Toronto Raptors' 4 most valuable trade assets

The Toronto Raptors are heading toward the NBA doldrums, finishing with a 41-41 record.If you count the play-in loss to the 10-seed Chicago Bulls, they lost more games than they won just one season after Nick Nurse led the team to 48 victories.Given the franchise's recent success, this was unsatisfactory to Masai Ujiri, who decided to fire Nick Nurse once the season concluded.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Pros and Cons of Raptors hiring JJ Redick as head coach

The Toronto Raptors have been interviewing plenty of proven head coaches and top-end assistants in their quest to find a replacement for Nick Nurse.They have also made one of the more puzzling interview requests we had seen in quite some time when they asked to talk to JJ Redick.Redick, who is currently a TV talking head with ESPN and a podcast host following a very productive 15-year NBA career, was interviewed by the Raptors for their head coaching vacancy.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors' head coach candidates list includes Kenny Atkinson, Becky Hammon, and others

The Toronto Raptors may have missed out on hiring Ime Udoka after the firing of Nick Nurse, but it looks like Masai Ujiri is finally going to jump-start the process of finding a replacement who can help get this team back into the championship picture.Ujiri is looking for someone that is disciplined, works hard, and can instill confidence that turns into tangible internal development while relating to his players.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors draft: 4 prospects to watch during March Madness

The Toronto Raptors might be trying everything in the book as they try to figure out some way to compete for a postseason spot, but they are just as likely to fall out of the postseason picture and end up with a very high draft pick.Masai Ujiri and the rest of the front office will be watching March Madness with a very keen eye.
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Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Fred VanVleet's contract demands could hurt trade chances

Early Monday afternoon, Fred VanVleet announced he would be declining his $22.8 million player option for next season.Heading into the open market, the former All-Star point guard is looking for a pay raise while hoping to test the waters of free agency.The Toronto Raptors now have a serious dilemma on their hands.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

3 sign-and-trade targets Raptors must pursue in Fred VanVleet talks

The Toronto Raptors have never been closer to a Fred VanVleet departure than they are right now.While he chose to stay with the Raptors during his first free-agent run, he is looking elsewhere as he tries to find that one last payday just one year removed from being an All-Star.VanVleet has declined his player option for next season, and reports hinting that he is "willing to negotiate" with the Raptors make it seem like he needs to be convinced of a return and that he is keeping his options for a departure wide open.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

3 Grizzlies trade targets Darko Rajakovic could bring to Raptors

The Toronto Raptors finally finished one of the longest and most exhausting coaching searches in recent history, as they settled on former Memphis Grizzlies assistant Darko Rajakovic as their next leader.Looking at his resume, one might wonder why he has taken so long to earn this opportunity.Rajakovic's tenure in Memphis, in which he established himself as a master developer of young talent and an adherent to his own variation on Mike Budenholzer's and Taylor Jenkins' offensive system, was very impressive.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Cason Wallace-Raptors rumors growing after workout cancellation

The Toronto Raptors may decide once again to add a switchable wing in the NBA Draft, but Masai Ujiri might help the team more in the next two seasons if he uses the No. 13 pick on a guard who can create, score, and defend.Kentucky's Cason Wallace seems like a player who could fit that particular bill.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA mock draft: Raptors linked to 3 different high-end guards

The Toronto Raptors are locked into the No. 13 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, giving Masai Ujiri and Bobby Webster a chance to add a legitimate game-changer.What makes their job even easier is that the team's needs have been clear as day for some time now.The Raptors' lack of offensive pizzazz, specifically as it relates to their backcourt, is what will make them one of the more interesting teams in the lottery.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors rumors: 3 Cleveland Cavaliers players worth trading for

The Toronto Raptors must make it a necessity to look at every possible angle from which this roster can be improved.If that means trading with a team like the Cleveland Cavaliers, who could be a threat to their designs on Eastern Conference domination, then so be it.The Cavs might look to jettison some of their bench this offseason, if the latest rumors from Sam Amico of Hoops Wire are to be believed.
Raptors Republic
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Jeff Dowtin Jr.: 2022-23 Season In Review

Jeffrey Dowtin Jr. was given the biggest opportunity of his NBA career this season.After some stellar play in his time with the Toronto Raptors summer league team, he was offered a two way deal with Toronto which he accepted.He took this deal and parlayed it into become a part of Toronto's future according to Masai Ujiri.
Raptors Republic
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Ujiri and the Raptors are emphasizing patience, not winning

It took 18 long minutes before Masai Ujiri mentioned winning.He entered the media room at 4:02 pm -- extraordinarily early.Sometimes media won't have access to a front office member until the wee hours of the morning, but the team announced "we're done" only minutes after the deadline passed.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

3 reasons the Raptors can make a second half playoff push

The Toronto Raptors are currently in line for a play-in spot that would potentially give them an opportunity to sneak into the postseason.While this is certainly a step down from where they were last season, Masai Ujiri and the rest of the team are very bullish on this roster's potential.Scottie Barnes believes that the Raptors have all the tools needed to make some noise in the playoffs.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors draft: Nick Smith Jr's offensive firepower is worth trading up for

A hot streak to close the 2022-2023 NBA campaign would see the Toronto Raptors climb into the top of the play-in bracket, with a chance to earn the No. 6 seed and cement their postseason status outright.A few losses strung together, and Toronto could just as easily see their playoff hopes snuffed out completely.
Wiz of Awes
10 months ago
Washington Wizards

This proposed trade sending Beal to Toronto is a home run for the Wizards

The NBA Draft, free agency, and the trade season are almost here.28 teams in the NBA, including the Washington Wizards, are impatiently waiting for the offseason to start so that they can revamp their roster.The Wizards, seemingly intent on being active this summer, are obviously a big part of the trade rumor mill.
Bullets Forever
10 months ago
Washington Wizards

Why isn't there much news on the Wizards' GM search?

The Washington Wizards are clearly looking for a new General Manager/President of Basketball Operations ... clearly someone who can take the front office and make the right roster decisions for the future.They are the only NBA team with a vacancy, offering the right person a chance to run operations from the nation's capital and a team owner who is generally willing to give a long leash.
Wiz of Awes
11 months ago
Washington Wizards

This major NBA executive reportedly linked to Wizards' GM position

As reported by Steve Bulpett of Heavy, an anonymous NBA general manager who has worked with the Toronto Raptors claims that Masai Ujiri is growing frustrated with his team and that there is friction between him and star point guard Fred VanVleet.According to that same GM, the Washington Wizards are once again ready to pursue the man who helped lead the Raptors to their first championship.
Bullets Forever
11 months ago
Washington Wizards

Should the Wizards approach their GM search like a midmarket team?

The Washington WIzards' search for a new general manager is ongoing.All we assume is that Monumental Sports & Entertainment CEO Ted Leonsis won't be hiring this executive from in-house.Besides that, the Wizards have been very tight-lipped about who they may want to bring on.Ava Wallace of The Washington Post recently wrote about the disconnect between how the Wizards may be trying to position themselves and how they probably should approach this search.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors' coaching search takes crazy turn as favorite denied second interview

The Toronto Raptors fired Nick Nurse more than one month ago, and they are the last team that still has a head coaching vacancy.Masai Ujiri is taking his time, even putting out as many smokescreens as possible when it comes to figuring out who is in the running.Just when it looked like three finalists were emerging, as Marc Stein listed Jordi Fernandez, Sergio Scariolo, and Darko Rajakovic as the trio fighting for the final job, Doug Smith of the Toronto Star came in with a wild rumor that claimed Fernandez is actually no longer in consideration.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA Mock Draft: Popular wing shooter linked to Raptors again

The Toronto Raptors, who have been pelted with Bilal Coulibaly rumors in the last few days, remain connected to many of the best shooters in the NBA Draft.Most NBA mock drafts have them eschewing Coulibaly and taking a guard that could provide them an instant punch of scoring.Toronto's most popular selections in the mock draft world seem to be Arkansas guard Nick Smith and Baylor standout Keyonte George.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

3 things the Toronto Raptors must do to get farther next year

The Toronto Raptors were one of the most disappointing teams in the league last season, as their 41 wins and play-in tournament exit seemed a far cry from the 48-win team that earned the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference on the back of good vibes and a tireless defense.Just one year later, Nick Nurse is gone and the Raptors are on the precipice of an offseason full of changes.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Way too early prediction of Raptors' 2023-24 starting lineup

The Toronto Raptors, if we are going to believe what Masai Ujiri hinted at during his postseason media availability, are willing to make all sorts of changes as they try to figure out the right combination needed to shake off last season's disappointment and get back in the postseason hunt.The Raptors have been linked to some earth-shattering trade ideas, including a move that flips OG Anunoby or Pascal Siakam to the Portland Trail Blazers for the No. 3 pick in the draft.
Raptors HQ
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Player Review: Precious Achiuwa, a season of non-linear growth

Following the success of his second NBA season, and first as a Toronto Raptor, Precious Achiuwa seemed poised for a breakout 2022-23 season.But instead of a Most Improved Player candidacy we got a roller coaster, which in some ways was a microcosm of the Raptors' season - the sum of the season, to put it bluntly, fell short of our ambitious hopes.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA Mock Draft has Raptors making confusing forward selection

Masai Ujiri and the Toronto Raptors know that the 2023 NBA Draft holds as much value and importance as any draft the Raptors have had in quite some time.They need to make sure that a high-end scorer comes to town and helps revitalize the offense.Names like Baylor's Keyonte George have risen to the forefront of Raptors Twitter's collective consciousness due to his scoring ability, though Kentucky's Cason Wallace and Arkansas' Nick Smith have also been connected to the Raptors with varying degrees of seriousness lately.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Toronto Raptors projected starting lineup after Jakob Poeltl trade

As the Toronto Raptors fans collectively freak out that they aren't sitting on two huge trade packages worth of picks, let's all take a second and appreciate that Masai Ujiri just plugged the roster's biggest hole.The lack of a rebounder and rim protector left a team that was advertised as a versatile defensive nightmare as more of the same over and over and over again.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Here's when the Raptors should consider firing Nick Nurse

Nick Nurse will forever be remembered as the man who brought a championship to the Toronto Raptors for the first time, and his work in seasons since that victory has established him as one of the very best coaches in the league.The 2022-23 season, however, has been nothing short of a nightmare for him.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors sign Will Barton, waive Juancho Hernangomez in stunning move

The Toronto Raptors appeared to have taken themselves totally out of the buyout market when they agreed to sign Joe Wieskamp to a multi-year contract.If Masai Ujiri was going to make another addition, one of the players on the current roster would need to be axed.Juancho Hernangomez officially saw his Raptors tenure cut short as a result.
Raptors Republic
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Nurse and Griffin are rehired. Where does that leave Toronto?

For a long time, the fruit of Toronto's coaching tree grew in lands far and wide.Two of Nick Nurse's assistants became head coaches in far-flung cities; Chris Finch in Minnesota and Nate Bjorkgren in Indianapolis.Head coaches of the Raptors 905 like Jama Mahlalela received promotions to join other teams -- the Golden State Warriors for Mahlalela.
Raptors Republic
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Day 36/59: Countdown to Change

Some movement in the coaching carousel.Adrian Griffin, former lead assistant under Nick Nurse for your Toronto Raptors, was hired as the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks.I have a long, long piece about that coming out for the Milwaukee Bucks sometime very soon on nba dot com, which is cool.It'll be free and unlocked, and once it's out, I'll hyperlink it to here.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Top Raptors head coach candidate might take a season off

One of the few coaching candidates that just about all corners of the Toronto Raptors' fanbase have been very excited about is former Phoenix Suns coach Monty Williams.All Williams has done in the last three seasons in Phoenix is get them into the second round of the postseason while making a Finals run in 2020-21
Williams, who was let go by Phoenix after losing to the mighty Nuggets in the playoffs, has been targeted by the Raptors as well as fellow Eastern Conference movers and shakers like the Bucks.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Raptors undecided on rebuilding or competing in 2023

The Toronto Raptors and their fanbase are currently locked in a vicious tug of war.While some corners want to keep plugging away with this current core and make one more playoff run, some want Masai Ujiri to blow this roster up and start from scratch around Scottie Barnes.Ujiri clearly has some indecision with regard to which direction makes more sense for this franchise.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Should Raptors prioritize Anthony Black or Nick Smith in NBA Draft?

The Toronto Raptors and Arkansas Razorbacks' fanbases may need to get to know each other very well in the next few weeks.Eric Musselman has sent a quartet of viable pro prospects into the NBA miasma, with Anthony Black and Nick Smith standing out this year.At this point, there might be more mock drafts that feature the Raptors drafting Smith than any other player combined.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

The case for the Raptors hiring Steve Nash as head coach

The Toronto Raptors might be on the verge of doing something unthinkable, as the latest reports from all over the basketball world confirmed that Steve Nash interviewed with the team for their head coaching vacancy.By all accounts, Nash ended up impressing the team in an interview.Replacing Nick Nurse with Nash would be a serious system shock for this fanbase, especially after he is coming off one of the most disappointing tenures in recent league history as coach of the Brooklyn Nets.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors draft: 3 Big Ten players to select in 2023 NBA Draft

The Toronto Raptors own the No. 13 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, which puts them in a position to turn that pick into a star player that can reverse this team's fortunes.Toronto is in need of shooters, ball-handlers, and (ideally) one player who can help in both of those areas.The Raptors have been projected to go to the SEC frequently in mock drafts, with names like Nick Smith and Cason Wallace being projected to head up north quite frequently.
Raptors Rapture
10 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors passing on Nikola Jokic during 2014 Draft still stings

The Toronto Raptors and Denver Nuggets are two franchises trending in two different directions right now.While Toronto looks to reboot its roster and try to compete with a new head coach, Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets have made the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history.Jokic remains one of the more improbable success stories in the NBA.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Could the Raptors be eyeing Keyonte George with the No. 13 pick?

Unable the climb the lottery, the Toronto Raptors officially were handed the No. 13 pick in the upcoming 2023 NBA Draft.Unless the front office makes a move in the coming weeks, the Raptors will be picking at the bottom of the lottery.With that pick, there is a chance that Masai Ujiri and Bobby Webster could be eyeing Baylor freshman Keyonte George, who is projected to land in that range.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

3 Raptors free agency targets who can add 3-point shooting

The Toronto Raptors need shooting as badly as any team in the league, as a promising season was undercut and ruined by the fact they never found the consistency needed to beat teams in half-court situations.The lack of 3-pointers is what really did them in last year.Gary Trent Jr. was excellent, and OG Anunoby couldn't miss for a stretch in the season half of the season, but the damage had been done already.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Latest Raptors coaching update sets stage for shocking fans with hire

The Toronto Raptors' coaching search is a good Rorschach test for fans.While the optimists will see a very diverse search that involves candidates from all over the basketball world, the pessimist would look at their initial list of candidates as lacking in structure and a defined vision.After all, why else would Toronto be (seemingly) equally interested in a former NBA finalist like Monty Williams and someone who has never coached in the NBA like JJ Redick?
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Toronto Raptors draft: 3 SEC players to select in 2023 NBA Draft

The Toronto Raptors may need to head down south to find their next tremendous prospect to mold into a star.The 2023 NBA Draft has plenty of solid players to draft at No. 13 overall, with the SEC specifically pumping out multiple quality first-round prospects.The Raptors' fetish for 6-8 players that can move well for their size might tip them off to one or two interesting players currently percolating around the fringes of the lottery.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors could land Scoot Henderson with this bold trade to No. 3

While the Toronto Raptors did not move up in the 2023 NBA Draft order during the lottery revealing on Tuesday night, the Portland Trail Blazers managed to get extremely lucky when they moved up to the No. 3 overall spot.That doesn't mean they will keep the pick, however.With Damian Lillard still without an NBA Finals appearance, Portland has hinted that they will do everything to maximize their chances of competing for a title with No. 0 on the roster.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

13 players the Raptors could pick at No. 13 in 2023 NBA Draft

The Toronto Raptors are locked into the No. 13 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, as they didn't move up or down in the order following their disappointing 41-41 campaign.Masai Ujiri and Bobby Webster could trade the pick, but all signs point to them keeping the pick and adding a long-term contributor.The Raptors need a guard that can handle a substantial offensive workload, a wing that can add more shooting, or a bench forward that could fit in with the system.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors fail to move up in 2023 NBA Draft order, avoid Knicks disaster

Fate and the laws of probability were not on the side of the Toronto Raptors as the NBA Draft lottery approached.Not only were they outside of the postseason picture, but they had more than a 90% chance of remaining stuck at No. 13 overall and failing to make a miraculous ascension into the top four.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Knicks again eyeing Raptors' OG Anunoby via trade

The New York Knicks' run to the second round of the NBA postseason might prompt the front office to be even more aggressive in acquiring a star.The Toronto Raptors, a team who is expected to change the fundamental shape of their roster, might be able to help them out with an OG Anunoby trade.Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report mentioned that many around the league expect Karl Anthony-Towns, a New Jersey native and CAA client who could be jettisoned by a Timberwolves team looking to build around Anthony Edwards, to eventually end up in New York via a trade.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors draft: Kobe Bufkin could emerge as a combine star

The mock draft predictors seem to believe that Toronto Raptors executive Masai Ujiri is very fond of whatever Juwan Howard is doing at Michigan.Not only has Wolverines wing Jett Howard been a popular selection in mock drafts for Toronto, but point guard Kobe Bufkin has also wriggled his way into this fanbase's collective consciousness.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Wizards eyeing Raptors Masai Ujiri once again

The Toronto Raptors' recent decade of success coincides perfectly with the arrival of Masai Ujiri into the team's plans.After years of mismanagement, Ujiri helped turn them around and make them a champion for the first (and, to this point, only) time in franchise history.Rather than deciding to pluck some of his top acolytes in an attempt to replicate the magic Toronto has had in the last few seasons, teams have been trying to convince Ujiri to leave the Raptors.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Predicting where each big Toronto Raptors free agent signs

The Toronto Raptors will be one of the most active teams in free agency.Turns out, when three of your six best players are scheduled to hit the open market, the offseason microscope might focus on you.This is a sharp change of pace from the last few offseason cycles.The Raptors have center Jakob Poeltl, team leader Fred VanVleet, and standout young guard Gary Trent Jr. in line for a big payday, with the latter two almost guaranteed to decline their player options and look for more expensive deals outside of Canada this summer.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Scottie Barnes working out with potential Raptors trade target

The Toronto Raptors will not look the same as they try to figure out which parts of the roster are dead fat that needs to be trimmed away, but one of the only constants that has been consistently mentioned as a long-term building block is dynamic forward Scottie Barnes.Surrounding Barnes with shooters that can help space the floor is the best way to make sure that he ends up reaching his full potential.
Raptors Republic
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Dalano Banton: 2022-23 Season in Review

The following is part of Raptors Republic's series of pieces reviewing the season for the Toronto Raptors.You can find all the pieces in the series here.Masai Ujiri said so much of significance in his press conference with assembled media that what he said about Dalano Banton could easily have slipped under the radar.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Royce O'Neale stands out as a realistic Raptors trade target

The Toronto Raptors are never going to be an attractive free agent destination due to their geographic issues, so Masai Ujiri needs to be very proactive in the trade market as he looks to improve the team.The Brooklyn Nets, who may take a look at Fred VanVleet, might be able to help Toronto out here.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Could the Raptors hire top Bucks assistant Charles Lee?

The Toronto Raptors have put some puzzling choices on their initial list of head coaching candidates, as names like Darko Rajakovic and Jordi Fernandez did not show up on many other team's shortlists.One name on their list that is an unusually hot name in the coaching circle is Milwaukee Bucks assistant Charles Lee.
Lee, who has been one of Mike Budenholzer's top assistants for the last nine seasons, was promoted to associate head coach after Darvin Ham took the Lakers job. Lee may have his pick of three available jobs, showing what a terrific job he has done of building a coaching resume.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Grade the Trades: 3 Raptors targets for Thad Young's contract

The Toronto Raptors' usage of Thad Young, fresh off trading for the grizzled veteran and signing him to a two-year contract, was puzzling.After starting him earlier in the season as a small-ball center, Young's role was reduced to the point where he saw playing time in just a handful of games during the remainder of the season.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA mock draft: Simulation helps Raptors land quality shooter

The Toronto Raptors are in the market for more shooting and depth in the backcourt as they try to get back to the postseason.Masai Ujiri has been given a golden opportunity to accomplish that task in the 2023 NBA Draft, as he is in possession of what will likely be the No. 13 overall pick.The Raptors have been linked to many of this draft's top guards.
Raptors Rapture
11 months ago
Toronto Raptors

Jordi Fernandez could be a great hire for the Toronto Raptors

The Toronto Raptors have started to look around the league for top candidates to replace Nick Nurse as the team's head coach.While names like Kenny Atkinson and Becky Hammon raised some collective eyebrows, one name that could steal the job away is Sacramento Kings assistant head coach Jordi Fernandez.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Raptors insider hints Nick Nurse-Rockets buzz is real

Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse has had a seat as ice cool as any coach in the league over the last few years, but things have really turned in the other direction this season.The confluence of his contract situation and Toronto's disappointing record has some speculating if this is the end for Nurse in Canada.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors news: Jeff Dowtin deadline approaching, Tracy McGrady rips Heat

The Toronto Raptors have been boosted by the performance of backup point guard Jeff Dowtin Jr. in the last few weeks.Dowtin, who is currently on a two-way contract, has beaten out two draft selections in Malachi Fynn and Dalano Banton that were hand-picked by Masai Ujiri.Dowtin's 4.7 points and 3.0 assists per game in the last three contests aren't setting the world on fire, but they have helped Toronto pull off some very close wins against quality competition.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors should target multiple Blazers players before impending Portland retool

Masai Ujiri and the Toronto Raptors may have had it rough this season after taking a step back, but they can take solace in the fact that they are having a better season than the Portland Trail Blazers in the Western Conference.Damian Lillard is averaging over 32 points per game, yet this team is in the Victor Wembanyama sweepstakes.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA Mock Draft: 3 popular Raptors targets declare for NBA Draft

The Toronto Raptors have received some better bench play of late, but that likely won't change the fact that Masai Ujiri will likely head into the 2023 NBA Draft looking for a creator that can give this team a scoring punch.All Raptors mock draft plans should be adjusted accordingly.There is a common misconception that 2023 is a two-player draft with no franchise cornerstones in the talent pool outside of Victor Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson at the very top of the order.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

3 Raptors who have earned a spot on the 2023-24 roster

The Toronto Raptors have played most of the year with a very suspect second unit, as the lack of consistent 3-point shooting off the bench and inability to perform when the chips are down are part of the reason Toronto is a play-in contender rather than a playoff fixture.It's not unreasonable to suggest that everyone outside of Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes should be on the table when it comes to evaluating their worth as complementary pieces next season.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Wizards broadcast takes shot at Raptors' Scottie Barnes/Pascal Siakam duo

For some reason, it's become relatively commonplace on NBA social media to bash Toronto Raptors second-year standout Scottie Barnes and All-Star forward Pascal Siakam.It appears as though Barnes not becoming LeBron James at age 21 and Siakam's bubble performance from three years ago are still fair game as far as insults go.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

3 offseason tasks the Raptors should already be working on

Masai Ujiri, Fred VanVleet, and the Toronto Raptors are one of many teams that are currently locked in a very uneven middle ground in the Eastern Conference playoff race.Toronto would be in the play-in tournament (at the time of writing) if the season ended today.The Raptors need to pull off a serious balancing act here, as they need to make sure that they don't lose sight of their offseason goals while simultaneously showing the league that they are a team that should be feared in a potential postseason clash.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors draft: 3 March Madness stars who could fit Toronto

Masai Ujiri and the rest of the Toronto Raptors front office, like the rest of us before our bracket got busted by that one crazy upset (looking at you, Purdue), were locked into the 2023 NCAA Tournament.Ujiri had to be overseeing these games with the goal of plucking out the next star that could come right in and make an impact.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Ideal Raptors draft target offically declares for 2023 NBA Draft

Toronto Raptors executive Masai Ujiri is likely hard at work trying to figure out which players could be worth burning a first-round pick on in the 2023 NBA Draft.As every Raptors fan has been screaming for the last few months, shooting and offensive creativity are needed.Even though the injured Otto Porter Jr. is under contract for next season, there is a very good chance that the Raptors take the L on his contract and move him somewhere else.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Potential high end Fred VanVleet replacement likely off market

The Toronto Raptors are not necessarily going to be in a position of strength when negotiating with point guard Fred VanVleet.The latest NBA rumors suggest that the point guard market around him isn't going to be super deep, with only a few players capable of replacing his production.One of those players is Los Angeles Lakers point guard D'Angelo Russell, a potential Raptors trade target once upon a time that was shipped back to LA from the Minnesota Timberwolves at the deadline.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

4 Toronto Raptors who are playing for their future in Canada

Fred VanVleet and the Toronto Raptors are officially in the middle of the most important stretch of the season.With a long homestand against beatable teams coming up, failing to perform well in these games could be enough to put the final nail in this team's coffin as they chase a postseason spot.What has become very apparent in the last few weeks, however, is the fact that this roster is going to look much different next season.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA Mock Draft: Raptors add "Vision 6-9" power forward

The Toronto Raptors mock draft predictors have come out of their respective caves as the draft lottery inches closer.This season has made it painfully clear that the Raptors need more offensive juice, and they could have a golden opportunity to select a player that can fix those issues in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

7 players that the Toronto Raptors gave up on too soon

The Toronto Raptors have one of the best front offices in the league.Masai Ujiri and his staff have uncovered a ton of hidden gems, including Pascal Siakam in the late first round and signing Fred VanVleet as an undrafted free agent.Toronto made the playoffs just five times in 18 years before Ujiri arrived, and they been there in eight of the last nine years, including winning the championship in 2019.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

3 free agents Raptors should have signed over Otto Porter Jr.

The Toronto Raptors have found themselves mired on the fringes of the play-in tournament rather than challenging for 50 wins.This came as a result of unreasonably betting on the team's core and making Otto Porter Jr. the team's marquee offseason addition.Porter was fresh off a season in which he helped the Golden State Warriors take home a championship, but the injury history that has consistently taken the former No. 3 overall pick off the path to success has reared its head again.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Pascal Siakam welcomes Jakob Poeltl back to Raptors on IG

The Toronto Raptors were so impressed by the play of San Antonio Spurs big man Jakob Poeltl that they decided to make a trade for him and reunite him with current All-Star snub and franchise cornerstone Pascal Siakam.Masai Ujiri is pressing the rewind button and taking the team back to 2017.While Siakam was taken 27th overall in the 2016 NBA Draft, it was Poeltl who was viewed as the better prospect initially.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

3 buyout targets Raptors must look into after trade deadline

The Toronto Raptors did not trade one of Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, or Gary Trent Jr. at the 2023 NBA Trade Deadline, much to the surprise of the fanbase and the charging of a very vocal section of that fanbase.Toronto appears to be doubling down on their core.While the addition of Jakob Poeltl from the San Antonio Spurs will help the Raptors get much better at protecting the basket, they still have some major roster issues that will make it very difficult for them to make much noise in the postseason.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

3 Raptors who must step up after polarizing Jakob Poeltl trade

Masai Ujiri and the Toronto Raptors could have blown things up at the trade deadline, trading away names like Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, and Gary Trent Jr. for bench players and draft picks.Instead, Toronto emerged as buyers, trading for Spurs big man Jakob Poeltl.Ujiri seems to be committed to head coach Nick Nurse and the style of basketball he is trying to play, which is a bit of a risk given all of the struggles the Raptors have endured in their lackluster 26-31 season.
Raptors HQ
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

One of the biggest game days of the year; Toronto Raptors vs Detroit Pistons preview, start time, and more

I was out last night, and continuously heard people talking about "the big game tomorrow."Like, I know that games between these two ever since Dwane Casey won Coach of the Year with the Toronto Raptors, got fired and then signed with the Detroit Pistons, but I didn't think it was that big of a deal?
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Jakob Poeltl provides the Toronto Raptors with flexibility for 2023

The return of Jakob Poeltl wasn't what Toronto Raptors' fans were expecting.The 7-1 center does provide Toronto with a solution to its perceived lack of experience and size at the center position.Toronto must take full advantage of the newly acquired asset, who was averaging 12.1 points, and 9.0 rebounds per game on 61% shooting in 26 minutes per game with San Antonio.
Raptors Republic
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

The Raptors make sense with Jakob Poeltl on the roster

The locker room went berserk.Yeaaahhh, you could hear across the hall.Jakobbbb!He had just finished obliterating the Orlando Magic, sending the Toronto Raptors to the All-Star break on perhaps the highest note of the season.The locker room keeps its doors closed at the very end of the game, and the interview room is across the hallway.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors draft: 3 "Vision 6-9" prospects Masai Ujiri could draft

The Toronto Raptors may be moving towards a win-now mindest after making the trade for Jakob Poeltl just a few days ago, but Masai Ujiri and the front office still have their eyes focused on the 2023 NBA Draft.If the season ended right now, Toronto would be in possession of a lottery pick.The Raptors will need to add some backcourt skill and perimeter shooting at some point in the offseason, as the lack of those two skills has made it incredibly hard for the offense to take flight properly.
Raptors Republic
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Pascal Siakam's All-Star selection is the Raptors season

We were very close to seeing Pascal Siakam become the first player to ever average at least 25-8-5 to not be selected in the All-Star game.When the first returns came back around, he was left out.The statistical footnote is fun and quippy, but the truth is that despite Siakam's overall brilliance this season, a prolonged slump and the Raptors increasingly disappointing record had fully halted all of the momentum that he had spent building up prior to the New Year.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Nets shopping Ben Simmons will make Raptors fans thankful for Masai Ujiri

Once upon a time, the Toronto Raptors were among the leaders in the clubhouse when it came to prying All-NBA point-forward Ben Simmons away from the Philadelphia 76ers.Eventually, the Brooklyn Nets brought him to town after the James Harden debacle.The return on their investment hasn't been amazing, unfortunately.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors mock draft: Toronto adding 6-8 son of NBA great

Masai Ujiri may think that his team is capable of doing some damage in the playoffs this season and next year, but the team's sub-.500record at the All-Star break is not going to stop the Toronto Raptors mock draft predictors from coming out of the woodwork in the next few months.Toronto has already found itself so far down in the standings that it will be very hard for them to crawl out of the play-in tournament area.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Should the Raptors cut a player and add a buyout candidate?

The Toronto Raptors are moving closer to contending after being a win-now buyer at the trade deadline.The Jakob Poeltl move appears to have paid dividends, even if the team's biggest offensive issue remains unaddressed by the reacquisition of the Austrian big man.The Raptors remain a subpar team when it comes to shooting and playmaking on the perimeter.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Did Raptors preview 2023-24 starting lineup vs. Pelicans?

The Toronto Raptors were supposed to preview their brand new 2022-23 lineup against the New Orleans Pelicans.After trading for Jakob Poeltl at the deadline, Nick Nurse was expected to start him at center, Scottie Barnes and All-Star Pascal Siakam at forward, and Fred VanVleet and OG Anunoby in the backcourt.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Grading every Toronto Raptors player after All-Star break ends

The Toronto Raptors started the second part of the 2022-23 season off well, taking down the New Orleans Pelicans without Fred VanVleet in the lineup.Nick Nurse and Masai Ujiri seem to be very bullish on this team's potential despite such a rocky start.Toronto came into the season with expectations of improving upon a 48-win season that helped them land the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors playing like best team in the league with Jakob Poeltl

All of the Twitter GMs who were skeptical about how Jakob Poeltl would fit with the Toronto Raptors in his second stint with the team have gone silent after the last few games.Poeltl was brought in to be a defensive stopper, but his performance on the offensive end has won him some nonstop praise.Toronto has won all three games in which Poeltl has started, and the Austrian big himself has had his best two-game stretch in his professional career.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Raptors news: Fred VanVleet update, Jakob Poeltl talks social media praise

The Toronto Raptors took down the New Orleans Pelicans thanks to another classic Pascal Siakam domination and Jakob Poeltl continuing to show that Masai Ujiri was right to trade for him.That win also came without the services of point guard Fred VanVleet.VanVleet sat out the first game of the de facto second half due to what the team called a personal matter.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Top buyout player ready to spurn potential Raptors playoff foe

The Toronto Raptors chose not to pursue any players available on the buyout market, choosing instead to fill their final roster spot by signing G League shooter Joe Wieskamp to a multi-year contract.As such, top players like Will Barton were not given the time of day by Masai Ujiri and the front office.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Grade the Trade: B/R sends Raptors' OG Anunoby to Memphis

The Toronto Raptors may have refused to unload OG Anunoby in an offseason trade, but that doesn't mean that the rumors surrounding him are going to dissipate completely.Teams like the Memphis Grizzlies will assuredly be after him amid whispers he has asked out of Toronto.Fans may groan at headlines that say Toronto turned down three first-round picks, but there is a good chance they are only telling half of the story.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

NBA rumors: Ideal Raptors free agent target will hit open market

The Toronto Raptors are dangling off a very precarious ledge right now, as more than half of their starting lineup will likely be free agents when the summer comes around.Losing one of either Fred VanVleet or the still deadly Gary Trent Jr. would be a nightmare for a team that already lacks shooting.
Raptors Rapture
1 year ago
Toronto Raptors

Latest Kyle Lowry injury update stinks for Toronto Raptors fans

Even though the Toronto Raptors picked a good time to part ways with franchise icon Kyle Lowry, trading him to the Miami Heat for a package headlined by Precious Achiuwa, Raptors fans are still rooting for the greatest player in franchise history to succeed in his new spot.After all, part of the reason that Pat Riley and the head seemed like a good destination for him was the franchise's ceaseless pursuit of a championship.
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