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Toronto Raptors: Creating the team’s all-time roster

By Mike Bossetti

Tracy McGrady (L) consoles Vince Carter after Carter fouled out against the Charlotte Hornets April 27, 1999. Kevin Willis (r) looks on dejectedly. (BERNARD WEIL/TORONTO STAR) (Photo by Bernard Weil/Toronto Star via Getty Images)
Tracy McGrady (L) consoles Vince Carter after Carter fouled out against the Charlotte Hornets April 27, 1999. Kevin Willis (r) looks on dejectedly. (BERNARD WEIL/TORONTO STAR) (Photo by Bernard Weil/Toronto Star via Getty Images) /
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MEMPHIS, TN – DECEMBER 8: Kyle Lowry
MEMPHIS, TN – DECEMBER 8: Kyle Lowry /

Kyle Lowry(2016-2017): Starting Point Guard

The team’s best point guard in franchise history, Kyle Lowry wins this spot in a landslide. He is a multi-time all-star and has been the team’s best, most consistent player during the most succesful seasons in franchise history.

While DeMar DeRozan has been more important to the franchise due to his longevity, at his peak, Kyle Lowry has been the best player since Chris Bosh.

The only question for Lowry is which season to take. In 2015-2016 he made his only All-NBA team. That season he averaged 21.2 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.7 rebounds. He also received votes for (but did not make) NBA All-Defensive Team.

However, it is the 2016-2017 that will ultimately make the list. In 2016-2017 Lowry was able to increase his scoring slightly, but increase his efficiency notably. In 16-17 Lowry was able to increase his effective field goal percentage from 51.6 to 56.9.

51.6 is good, but 56.9 is elite efficiency for a point guard. In 2016-2017, Stephen Curry was the only point guard who attempted at least three shots per game and shot more efficiently than Kyle Lowry.

Not only is Lowry one of the best players in franchise history, he is also a perfect fit for an all-time roster. He is smart, a good defender, and spaces the floor with his elite level shooting. On our hypothetical team Lowry will serve as a highly efficient, low-usage player, a role he should be able to adjust to with ease.