How do I feel about the latest Toronto Raptors trade? Let’s find out together.
History
Before I discuss the trade I want to take you through my personal history and the history of the Toronto Raptors.
The NBA has many powerhouses and free agents always tent to go the bigger markets. Back in the days no players wanted to play in Toronto, and still today it’s hard for them land big free agents. Let’s look back to the Vancouver Team, it’s not even there anymore.
The last decade a lot changed, just watch the “The Carter effect” on Netflix and you will understand the Basketball in Canada is really booming right now. They even line-up outside for all the play-offs. So you can say things changed big time. But what was one off the main reason for it to chance? DeMar DeRozan!
DeMar DeRozan
He got drafted by the Raptors and really worked on his game every year, by now he is respected All-Star and one of the elite scorers in the NBA. He is also one of the few players that truly committed to the Raptors.
So do I like this trade? No I hate it! I love players that are able to play for the same team their whole careers and dislike it when players change teams all the time. That’s why I don’t understand this trade by the Toronto Raptors. I do understand they needed to do something in order to make it to the finals. But I rather never make it to the finals and see DeMar play in Toronto.
My understanding is that the Raptors believed that they could not win with DeMar DeRozan, even thought they had the best regular season record. But again they fired the coach as well.
Kawhi Leonard
Don’t get me wrong I love the skill level of Leonard and think if he is healthy and committed he can really help the team.
I just don’t understand that the Raptors made this move because Leonard said many times he wants to play in Los Angeles. I therefore think he will sign in LA next season anyway.
The Raptors are hoping for a Paul George scenario but I don’t see that happen.
THANKS FOR EVERYTHING DeMar DeRozan! WE WILL MISS YOU!