Many fans across Canada were surprised to see the results in the first 10 games of the regular season as the Raptors went 2-8. It was getting a little frustrating as there were many games the Raptors would blow the lead in the fourth quarter and eventually lose the game.
Since then, the Raptors were starting to look like the team we have seen in the past 5+ years. Going 10-5 in their last 15 games is a step in the right direction. There have been a few players that have taken a huge step in the right direction.
Chris Boucher
This man should be nominated for sixth man of the year! Look at the numbers he is putting up. When he comes off the bench, he gives Toronto the opportunity to win every game. (Scroll picture to see stats)
Norman Powell
In OG’s absence, Powell has been consistently in the Raptor’s starting line-up. This season, he’s been averaging 16.3 points per game and shooting 44% from the arc. With Freddy and Kyle in the back court, this gives the team another option if those two are covered. (Scroll picture to see stats)
Fred Vanvleet
Signing a four-year deal in the off season, Freddy is here for the long haul! Once Kyle leaves or retires, Freddy is the future of this Raptors team. Having a historic night, Vanvleet put up 54 points to set a new franchise record. Beating out long-time fan favourite Demar Derozen. An amazing accomplishment and definitely motivating as the Raptors progress through the season. (Scroll picture to see stats)
There’s something “BIG” missing
One thing I have noticed throughout these games is that I really miss having Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka. Aron Baynes hasn’t lived up to expectations and has been sloppy on both ends of the court. With a new multi-year extension, Bobby Webster needs to go out and look for a centerman that can push Toronto to the next level. The Raptors are starting to win games but not enough to compete in the playoffs especially with some really strong teams at the top of the standings. Here is who the Raptors should go after.
Andre Drummond
Arguably one of the best rebounding centers in the NBA. Averaging 17.9 points per game and 13.8 rebounds per game, this would be a great fit for Toronto as one of their downfalls is rebounding in their own zone. After that massive trade that sent superstar James Harden to Brooklyn, the Cavs acquired Jaret Allen in the same deal. With an overload of centers, I believe there’s an opportunity for Toronto to trade for Drummond.
Toronto gets the centerman that they need! Andre Drummond will give Toronto the opportunity to compete in the regular season and playoffs. I think it’s time for Lowry to pass the torch off as Vanvleet and Powell can be the two players covering the back court. Toronto also has Malachi Flynn who has high potential to make an impact with the Raptors in the upcoming years.
Cleveland gets an unbelievable player in Kyle Lowry as he can lead a very young backcourt core. This will give Sexton and Garland to play the back court with a player who knows what it takes to win a championship.
The Raptors are trending in the right direction but still need that one last piece to give them a fighting chance against the big teams in the East.