Masaai Ujiri, the general manager of basketball operations, leads the charge with his vision for success. He has assembled a team of players focused on outworking their opponents and delivering victories. Despite the odds, this team of brave individuals strives to prove that the NBA championship is within their reach.
From honest analysis to unfiltered reaction, Raptors Rumors has you covered everything Raptor-related. Join us in standing behind our team no matter what - because, as we have always said, "We The North". Plus, share your thoughts with us by emailing [email protected] and become part of our family today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Toronto Raptors fare after Kawhi Leonard's departure?
The Toronto Raptors enjoyed a historic year. In the 2020 season, the Raptors won 53 games. All-Star point guard Kyle Lowry was the key to the team's success. He averaged 19.7 points and 7.5 assists per game. Pascal Siakam, an All-Star forward, was also a part of Lowry's team. He averaged 22.9 ppg and 8.3 rebound per game. Norman Powell and Fred VanVleet were also strong role players for the Raptors. Because of their talent and depth, the team was able to overcome injuries sustained by key players such as Serge Ibaka or Marc Gasol.
The team was led coach Nick Nurse and All NBA Second Teamer Pascal Siakam. . Coach Nurse made bold strategic decisions that paid off, and Siakam emerged as a superstar, averaging nearly 20+ points per game. Kyle Lowry was chosen to the 2020 NBA All-Star roster, his sixth consecutive selection.
The playoffs started earlier than usual this summer, in August at "Bubble" Bay Lake, Florida. The Raptors faced off against the Brooklyn Nets in the first round and won 4-0. The Raptors lost 0-2 against Boston Celtics. However, OG Anunoby's buzzer-beater won Toronto the third and final game. The series went on to seven games before Boston won.
Which was the Raptors' best year?
Toronto Raptors' best year was the 2019 championship season. It was a thrilling and memorable season for the Raptors, marking the first time they won an NBA Championship in franchise history. Kawhi Leonard was named Finals Champion after a team record of 58-24. They defeated the Golden State Warriors 6-1 to claim the title.
In 2013, the Toronto Raptors changed their front office, replacing then-general manager Bryan Colangelo with Masai Ujiri. This move would herald a new age for the franchise. They would be one of the best in the NBA.
The Raptors saw a resurgence under Ujiri. In 2014, they reached the playoffs for first time since 2008. Since then, they've won five Division titles and had their most successful regular season in 2018. That year also saw Ujiri make a risky but successful trade, sending DeMar DeRozan to the San Antonio Spurs for Kawhi Leonard.
The Raptors had a phenomenal 2019, winning their first conference crown and making it to NBA finals. In total, they beat the Golden State Warriors six times.
Ujiri has been an outstanding success with the Raptors and deserves to be credited for turning around the team's fortunes. He has led the Raptors to become one of NBA's best teams and looks poised for continued success.
The 2019 championship season will be remembered as one the greatest years in Raptors history.
Ujiri as well as the Toronto Raptors must continue to build a culture that supports their players, staff and players. The future of this team looks bright with their dedication to excellence. The Toronto Raptors have set the bar high for 2019 with their championship season. Now, it is up to Ujiri's team to build on this success.
What does "We The North" mean?
The Toronto Raptors are known for their anthem, "We The North," also known to as We The North Nation. It was written by Drake and Noah Shebib, a producer.
Drake wrote the song while staying at his friend's apartment in Toronto. He recorded Take Care with KanyeWest, another artist. Drake decided to make lyrics about his hometown while there. Drake wanted the song to represent all Canadians. The song is about unity. Pride. Hope.
Drake began working on the melody to We The North in London, when he was filming the video for "Nice For What". The instrumental version of the song was recorded in one take.
Drake was writing the lyrics to the song, but 40 came up with the chorus. Drake heard the hook and asked 40 if he could record it. They worked together to create the final product.
The official music video to "We The North Anthem", was released October 5, 2018. It featured Shawn Mendes, Canadian singer-songwriter and Drake performing with other musicians.
Why are Toronto Raptors called Raptors
The NBA's expansion to Canada saw the creation of the Toronto Raptors in 1995. The logo and name of the team are based on Jurassic Park, which was released in 1995. The team colours include bright red, purple and black as well as silver.
The Raptors were struggling to establish themselves in the league during their first season. They ended up with a record 21-61. But the team improved each season and was able to reach the playoffs by 1999.
The Raptors most memorable moment was 2019 when they captured their first NBA championship title. Toronto's first title was won by Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry, their backcourt duo. They defeated the Golden State Warriors in six thrilling games.
Since then, the Raptors are a favourite sports team in Canada. Toronto continues to provide excitement to basketball fans worldwide, whether they are international superstars or homegrown talent.
Canada's proud heritage is represented by the Toronto Raptors. Their success on the courts inspires young basketball players all over the country. With their passionate fans, unique style of play, and commitment to excellence, there is no doubt that the Raptors will continue to be one of Canada's most beloved teams for years to come.
Statistics
- Thomas named Raptors' GM NBA superstar to have 10% stake in the new franchise". (en.wikipedia.org)
- By 2018, estimated the Raptors were worth $1.4 billion, 12th in the NBA. (en.wikipedia.org)
- After Thomas attempted to execute a letter of intent with Slaight to purchase the team failed, he resigned from his position in November and sold his 9 percent stake in the team to Slaight. (en.wikipedia.org)
- This improved during the 2006–07 regular season to an average of 18,258 fans (13th in the league), 92.2 percent capacity at the Air Canada Centre. (en.wikipedia.org)
- As predicted by analysts, the team easily secured a berth in the 2001 NBA playoffs with a franchise-high 47 wins. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
sportingnews.com/ca
nba.com/raptors
bleacherreport.com
raptorshq.com
- Tip In: Toronto Raptors' Game Post Game: Not Just Any Williams
- Raptors HQ, a Toronto Raptors community
How To
Time to attend a Toronto Raptors Game
Toronto Raptors games usually take place during the weekdays between October and April. Weekends are often reserved to attend concerts or festivals.
Book tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
When visiting a Toronto Raptors game, the most popular day to attend is Wednesday. This is due to the fact that many fans arrive early in order to view pregame warmups.
Fans will then move to Nathan Phillips Square right next to the ACC. They remain there until the final whistle.
A Toronto Raptor game at 8 pm is the best time. Fans can leave the stadium at any time before midnight and return to the stadium to celebrate the team’s victory.
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