3 forgotten Raptors veterans who served as unsung franchise heroes

As November 11 rolls around, the significance of this day resonates deeply in both the United States and Canada. In the U.S., it's a time to honor military veterans, while Canadians observe Remembrance Day to commemorate fallen soldiers.

In the spirit of this commemorative occasion, we shift our focus to the hardwood of the NBA. Specifically, we look back at three former Toronto Raptors veterans who, despite often being overshadowed by more prominent figures, made monumental contributions to the franchise's legacy. Their tenures serve as reminders that greatness can come from unexpected sources and that the impact of an individual can be felt long after they’ve left the spotlight.

Bismack Biyombo

Bismack Biyombo's arrival in the 2015-16 season sparked excitement among Raptors fans, quickly establishing himself as a crowd favorite. His remarkable ability to dominate the glass culminated in an unforgettable performance on March 17, 2016, when he set a franchise-high for a regular season game, recording 25 rebounds against the Indiana Pacers. In Game 7 of the second round against the Miami Heat, he notched 17 points and 16 rebounds, propelling the Raptors into uncharted waters in franchise history.

Beyond his regular-season prowess, Biyombo emerged as an X-factor during the playoffs, significantly contributing to the Raptors' historic run to the Eastern Conference Finals. Although the Raptors ultimately succumbed to the legendary "LeBronto" and his Cleveland Cavaliers, Biyombo made a significant impact during the Eastern Conference Finals series. In Game 3 of the ECF, Biyombo made history for the Raptors by grabbing 26 rebounds, setting a new playoff record for the franchise. His remarkable performance played a crucial role in allowing Toronto to trim the Cavaliers' lead in the series to 2–1.

Despite his stellar contributions, the Raptors faced financial constraints that led them to part ways with Biyombo after just one season. The fan-favorite big man signed a lucrative four-year, $72 million deal with the Orlando Magic, marking a bittersweet farewell for both him and Raptors supporters. Biyombo's fairy tale season with the Toronto Raptors remains a cherished memory, even as he faced challenges in later stages of his career. His impactful moments with the team continue to resonate with fans and will not be forgotten.

Aron Baynes

Aron Baynes’ tenure with the Toronto Raptors was a complex chapter in the team’s history, amid a season filled with adversity and expectations. Initially, Baynes faced substantial criticism as his playing style appeared to clash with the Raptors' system, leading fans to dub him the "Tank Commander" during a tumultuous campaign in Tampa. This moniker came at a time when the team, having recently tasted championship glory, struggled to find its footing, leaving Baynes vulnerable to mockery and resentment from the fanbase.

However, looking back, it's evident that Baynes made significant contributions that facilitated a crucial shift in Raptors basketball. His performances, although inconsistent, often resulted in losses that ultimately positioned the Raptors for a higher draft pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. The frustrations of that season helped pave the way for emerging talent like Scottie Barnes, who was selected fourth overall and has since become a cornerstone of Toronto's future. While it was disheartening to watch a once-mighty Raptors team, fresh off a championship, fall from grace, it became clear that a strategic shift was necessary.

The difficult decisions to move away from veteran players like Kyle Lowry, and later Fred VanVleet, Pascal Siakam, and OG Anunoby, were integral to the team's evolution. Despite the challenges and setbacks, Aron Baynes played an undeniable role in this transition, serving as an unsung catalyst in guiding the team toward a rebuilding phase that promised renewed hope and potential for the future. His contributions to this pivotal period of transformation should not be overlooked, as they set the stage for the Raptors’ renewed aspirations and growth.

Greivis Vásquez

Acquired in a trade that sent Rudy Gay to the Sacramento Kings, the Venezuelan point guard quickly established himself as an important rotational player during his time in Toronto. Over the course of 143 games, Vásquez averaged 9.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, demonstrating his capability as a reliable playmaker. He also showcased his shooting skills, connecting on 41 percent of his attempts from the field, including an impressive 38 percent from beyond the arc.

Although not a franchise superstar, Greivis Vásquez made notable contributions during the playoffs, establishing himself as an important member of the Toronto Raptors' rotation. While his tenure with the team may not be recorded in the history books, its impact continued to be felt long after his departure. The Raptors capitalized on his value in a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks, acquiring a 2015 second-round pick along with a lottery-protected first-round pick for 2017.

This strategic move ultimately paved the way for the selection of OG Anunoby, a player who would evolve into a defensive cornerstone of the Raptors' success. Additionally, the trade indirectly led to the acquisition of Norman Powell, who developed into a pivotal contributor during the team’s championship run in 2019.

The trade continues to benefit the Toronto Raptors, as they have successfully parlayed Anunoby into promising young talent, including Jonathan Mogbo, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett. These three players have become essential components of the Raptors' rebuilding efforts, highlighting the long-term impact of the initial deal.

The far-reaching implications of the deal underscore how even unheralded players like Vásquez can profoundly influence a franchise's direction and success long after they've left the team. His story is a testament to the idea that every player, no matter how seemingly inconspicuous, can leave a lasting mark on a franchise's legacy.

As we reflect on Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, it's essential to recognize that heroes come in many forms. Bismack Biyombo, Aron Baynes, and Greivis Vásquez may not receive the accolades they deserve, but their contributions helped mold the Toronto Raptors into the promising franchise we see today. Each of these players played a vital role in anchored moments of success, serving as reminders that every victory, no matter how small, contributes to a larger legacy.