It might sound like a broken record at this point, but the most notable news surrounding the Toronto Raptors has been their reported aggressive pursuit of a star — or what Brian Windhorst referred to as a "big fish."
Orchestrating the strings behind this rumored direction is Raptors executive Masai Ujiri, who is no stranger to taking a big swing when the circumstances are right. Ujiri's name has already been linked to the Giannis Antetokounmpo discussions, given their rich history together. While he hasn’t publicly commented, it’s difficult to imagine anyone else influencing his decisions more than himself.
Although, as Kevin O'Connor recently suggested, Ujiri may be strategically influencing ownership to demonstrate the Raptors' commitment to reaching the big stage.
KOC thinks Masai Ujiri is working the Raptors' ownership a bit
On the June 6 edition of The Kevin O'Connor Show for Yahoo Sports, he mentioned the following regarding Ujiri and the Raptors' recent buzz about acquiring a major star:
"I think there's two things behind that. I think Toronto, A, like, they are open to trying to make a big move. But B, like, Masai Ujiri is under so much pressure right now to progress that team forward. I think this is appeasing ownership as well—like, showing, 'Hey, we're going for it. We're trying!'"Kevin O'Connor
So, what's the deal here, then?
Is Masai Ujiri merely making fools out of everyone with these rumors about Toronto? Well, as I mentioned earlier, we haven't heard anything directly from the source, but I’d like to think that other franchise executives have leaked some of the conversations or the increased interest sparked by the Raptors' head honcho.
Likewise, it would be rather foolish for Ujiri to openly reveal his plan to the public or specify exactly who they're targeting, but that's what the rumor mill is for.
I think what O'Connor said is pretty spot on regarding how fans should be approaching these reports. There's no doubt in anyone's mind that Toronto would jump at the chance to be involved in star trade discussions; they've been linked to nearly every major star available in recent years.
However, like all the smoke and mirrors surrounding those rumors in the past, only the Brandon Ingram trade ended up becoming a reality. They were unsuccessful in attempts to add Damian Lillard, and the initial Kevin Durant trade talks proved too costly for Ujiri to bite.
Nevertheless, I also have a hunch that we may be on the cusp of a new era for Raptors basketball —one in which they’re actually able to attract a star and return to prominence. They have a decent coach, and the roster is gradually coming together; now, it’s really up to Ujiri to find that go-to guy to complete the team.
And again, why not prove to the front office that you’re willing to do whatever it takes to push this team in the right direction — rather than standing pat with what you have and settling for mediocrity?That was something I had already previously criticized the Raptors and Ujiri for before.
Maybe they get it done, maybe they don’t, but at least they’re making a statement. Whether you see that as fooling the fanbase or steering ownership in their favor is another matter.
Or perhaps, that’s just the trademark Masai Ujiri brilliance.