Raptors Shift Focus to Scottie Barnes in 2024 Rebuilding Effort
- The Toronto Raptors finished the previous season with a 25-57 record, missing the playoffs.
- Key players from their championship-winning team have departed, while new players have been added to the roster.
- Scottie Barnes has emerged as the cornerstone of the team, but the Raptors' lack of depth may hinder their success this season.
In Canada, the Toronto Raptors are entering a rebuilding phase after a disappointing 25-57 season that saw them miss the playoffs. The team has parted ways with key contributors from their 2019 NBA Championship roster, including Gary Trent Jr. and Jalen McDaniels, while adding new players like Bruno Fernando and Davion Mitchell. Team president Masai Ujiri has indicated a focus on improving their draft positioning for 2025, acknowledging the importance of the draft in building a competitive team in the current market. Scottie Barnes, the 2022 NBA Rookie of the Year, is now the cornerstone of the franchise, having shown significant improvement in various aspects of his game and earning an All-Star nod last season. His recent contract extension could reach around $270 million if he meets supermax criteria. However, the Raptors face challenges with limited depth and size, which could hinder their performance, especially if injuries occur. While they have promising players like Gradey Dick and rookie Ja’Kobe Walter, the overall lack of reliable talent on the bench raises concerns about their ability to compete against stronger teams. As the Raptors aim to rebuild, the focus will be on developing their young talent and navigating the challenges of the upcoming season.