The Toronto Raptors have gone through so many development trials - such as losing and being inexperienced. Will they come back this year ready, and more improved?
It’s that time again. The time where NBA fans get to see their hometown or favorite team get a new draft pick and potentially, a different basketball team.
For the Raptors, things have gone.. hmm let’s say “alright“. Draft selections of Ed Davis, DeMar DeRozan, as well as the additions of Jerryd Bayless, Amir Johnson, and James Johnson have given the team new hope. Other players on the team like Sonny Weems, Andrea Bargnani, Jose Calderon and others (Julian Wright, Alabi) have been mediocre in terms of their expected potential. Bargnani isn’t the player he lived up to (so far), Sonny Weems is a great offensive talent, but on defense he lacks certain qualities, Jose is a good veteran, but a mediocre defender, etc.
As for the staff of the Raptors, as you all may have already known, Jay Triano has been relieved and has taken his talents upstairs helping out B.C. So far, I like the approach Toronto has made, dealing with only defensive minded and talented coaches. Dwyane (or Dwane, I’m not sure) Casey is a GREAT coach to pick up on, as he was on the championship team this year! Lawrence Frank has great experience as well (remember that playoff run we had against his former team, New Jersey?) and he has experience especially with Boston and New Jersey! This coaching move will be great, regardless of the choice!
Overall, the Raptors have gone through so many developmental, young flaws, as a young team should be enduring. A year has gone by, a year of pain, frustrations, development, improvement, and so much more.
All we can do now is sit and wait for June 23rd, 2011, and it’s go time.
Toronto Raptor's Daily 