The Dream starting 5 for the Toronto Raptors 5 years from now
By Mike Luciano
The Toronto Raptors may claim to be all focused on 2023-24 after a very rocky end to the Nick Nurse era, but Masai Ujiri and the rest of the front office will likely be keeping an eye on what this team can look like down the road. This roster is going to look very different in a few years.
The Raptors could lose names like OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam in the next few months if they are unable to retain them in free agency, and the team’s new youth movement might force the coaching staff to adjust their plans for the rotation on the basis of their performances along.
Toronto is willing to overturn large chunks of the roster if they sense the lack of potential in their current core, and that desire could lead to a few more upheavals in the next few years. When 2028 rolls around, expect the starters to look much different.
If the Raptors end up with this starting lineup in five years, Toronto will have enough star power and young talent to compete with just about anyone in the Eastern Conference. Will Masai Ujiri have the foresight needed to ensure these moves come to fruition?
Dream Toronto Raptors starting lineup in five years
Center: Christian Koloko
Norman Powell was a second-round pick who languished on the bench before eventually breaking through and emerging as a quality scorer for the Raptors. Jakob Poeltl may be on a four-year contract, but Koloko might be a natural successor if he keeps getting better.
Koloko is already a strong shot-blocker and quality athlete for the position, but he needs to pick up the finishing tools of the trade from Poeltl before he can become a starter. With how committed Toronto is to working with their young players, Koloko thriving should surprise no one.
The Toronto Raptors must retain Pascal Siakam.
Power forward: Pascal Siakam
Siakam should be retained, even with the potential financial implications. The Raptors need a heliocentric star who can keep the offense operating at an NBA level, and Siakam’s All-Star and All-NBA pedigree will ensure that he can keep playing well in his advanced age.
Siakam has a game that can age gracefully, as he can shoot well enough for his size, make solid passes, and finish close to the basket. He won’t be what he is currently, but an older Siakam could still be a solid tertiary scorer for a Raptors team with an eye on a postseason spot.