3 moves the Toronto Raptors should have made this summer but didn’t
Every NBA franchise aspires for post-season success, with the ultimate goal of competing for championships. However, when this goal becomes unattainable due to the current roster’s limitations, the focus often shifts toward the future. Teams begin to invest in younger talents with breakout potential while also acquiring assets and draft capital to accelerate their rebuilding process.
The Toronto Raptors, who achieved NBA supremacy in 2019 by defeating the Golden State Warriors to claim their first championship, have experienced a significant shift in direction since then. With notable departures and a highly competitive league landscape, the Raptors transitioned from a win-now mentality to embarking on a rebuilding phase, led by promising prospects like Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett.
Toronto largely held the line
During the offseason, the Toronto Raptors made notable high-profile moves in the 2024 NBA Draft, successfully acquiring three selected prospects to bolster their roster for the upcoming 2024-25 season. However, aside from their active draft night, the Raptors' front office has largely maintained the status quo, opting for lateral moves such as re-signing Immanuel Quickley while allowing their inconsistent shooting guard Gary Trent Jr. to depart for the Milwaukee Bucks.
Based on both front-office comments and player sentiments, it appears that the Toronto Raptors are poised to prioritize youth while also striving to return to playoff contention. However, despite having the summer to address the gaps in their roster and establish clearer direction, it appears they have not fully achieved these objectives.
This is not meant to undermine Toronto's chances for a potential postseason push, but the team should have been more proactive in making significant moves. These actions would help reassure both pundits and fans of their genuine commitment to becoming competitive once again in the NBA's Eastern Conference.