This past season was an excellent one for the Toronto Raptors. They were swept by New York Raptors in round one after missing the playoffs five years straight. The Raptors needed an upgrade at point guard, so they traded veteran Mark Jackson. However, they were able to add Lou Williams via trade deadline. Despite a low usage rate, Williams averaged 12.3 points and 6.4 rebounds per game while playing alongside Leonard and Kyle Lowry.
This team has a lot of talent. Brandon Marshall, who is a rookie with the Raptors, is one of them. He has a mediocre shooting percentage (38.9%), but he’s a valuable player who has earned his position on the roster by playing multiple positions and making the team successful. Amir Johnson, a former bench-player, is another great choice for the Raptors.
JYD Williams is another veteran who has helped make the team better. A fan favorite, Williams was also a strong rebounder and defender. He ranks fourth in defensive rating and is tied for third in blocks per game. He’s a great ambassador for the Raptors and the sport of basketball in Canada. In 2011, his presence on the team was vital. Williams was not only a key part of the Raptors’ success but also a key contributor to the team’s first-round pick.
Although it is difficult to compare the 2011 Raptors roster with other teams, there are some things that remain the same. The team had great chemistry and many aspects of success. Lowry, for example, was the first high school graduate to be drafted in 1997. He also helped the team win the NBA title. And he was almost traded for Iman Shumpert and Tim Hardaway Jr. This was a remarkable move by him.
Kawhi Leonard’s deal with the Raptors was a great one. Leonard genuinely wanted to stay with the team and worked hard to fit in with the organization. The timing of the deal ensured that Leonard won’t suffer a fall from grace or a bitter end. The 2011 Raptors roster is not without its flaws. Despite some lingering knee injuries, Leonard has been in great shape and looked great in training camp.
Bender was another great addition to the 2011 Raptors roster. He averaged 14.5 points per contest and was the second-highest scoring player for the team in his rookie season. He was a consistent contributor to the lineup, despite being plagued with injuries for most of his career. Peterson averaged 17.6 points per contest and led the Raptors to their first playoff appearance since 2000.
The Toronto Raptors are a team that will go far in the playoffs this season. Bosh was the franchise’s all-time leader for minutes played, blocks, rebounds and blocks. Bosh’s first season in Toronto was not the best, but his performance was enough to break the franchise’s record. Bosh only had one full season, but he already showed promise.