Six predictions for the next decade of Toronto Raptors basketball
Toronto Raptors win another championship
When the 2010s began the Raptors were far from where they are now. In fact, the Raptors’ playoff appearance in the 2013-2014 season was their first of the decade and first since 2008.
Over the past 10 years, a championship culture has been built in Toronto. Canada’s lone NBA franchise is no longer at the bottom of the league.
A key ingredient in the Raptors’ quest for another championship will be attracting star players. Toronto, despite the cold winters, is viewed by many as a favorable playing destination.
Unlike a decade ago, the Raptors can attract stars. They have one of the top coaches in the league, a winning culture, and an extremely promising young core.
Pascal Siakam is already starting to emerge as a top-level talent. Fred VanVleet on the other hand, may not be in the same tier as Siakam but he is a tremendous complementary piece. In addition, a player such as Terence Davis could turn out to be another diamond in the rough stud for the Raptors.
One generation of stars is reaching the peak of their careers, while another is just getting started. The landscape of the NBA as we know it is bound to look different as the next decade progresses.
It took Toronto 24-years and a lot of heartbreak along the way before winning their first championship. However, as the 2020s approach, the Raptors are primed to add another championship to their resume.