Optimism in Raptors Nation remains strong, although, it's still unclear how Brandon Ingram will fit into the team's future. Despite the fanfare, there’s a worrying side to the Ingram situation that could ultimately be more harmful than beneficial for the Raptors.
With Ingram likely out for the entire 2024-25 season, Toronto will need to rely on their prior knowledge of him from before the trade, along with insights gained during offseason workouts and training camp. Ultimately, they will get a clearer picture of his status once the 2025-26 season begins, but is this the most ideal scenario for the Raptors front office?
I understand that Toronto is eager to wrap up this season, probably eyeing a better shot at the lottery by adopting a tanking approach. Thus, bringing BI back to peak performance too soon would've definitely interfered with that plan.
Nevertheless, the way Toronto is managing Ingram still leaves me puzzled. It's clear the Raptors want to be competitive in the Eastern Conference playoff mix next season; otherwise, acquiring Ingram seems pointless. But how can you plan to build or retool a solid roster when you have no idea how the players will perform together on the court?
It's a huge gamble not knowing what Brandon Ingram will bring to the Raptors
Toronto might be taking a big risk by choosing to wait until next season to see how their players come together and build team chemistry. Watching scrimmages doesn't provide a clear picture of how a team will perform in actual NBA games against real opponents. Even Raptors’ spirited TSN broadcaster, Jack Armstrong, tackled the situation head-on. He stressed the importance of the front office making quick decisions about which players to keep and which ones should be let go.
The Raptors are relatively unsure what their core could look like with Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, Immanuel Quickley, and potentially RJ Barrett and Jakob Poeltl (if they aren’t traded), along with the the hodgepodge of young talent in between rounding out the bench and reserves.
Recently, other basketball commentators have pointed this out as well. Ryen Russillo discussed the issue in a recent episode of his podcast, which prompted me to write a response piece about it. Even major sports outlets like Bleacher Report have tagged Ingram's uncertain fit with the Raptors as the "1 Burning Question Every NBA Team Must Answer ASAP."
Toronto appears to be counting on its core group to establish a rhythm early in the 2025-26 season. However, nothing beats the benefits of developing team cohesion well before the pressure of in-game situations kicks in.
The Raptors still face significant challenges, particularly with center depth beyond Poeltl, their three-point shooting still needs considerable improvement (even with Ingram in the mix), and there’s some uncertainty about balancing immediate competition with the growth of their young players.
I understand that in the world of basketball, sometimes taking risks is necessary in pursuit of a grand vision. Although, it can be challenging to reconcile that optimism with the realities of the situation. Ingram didn't step onto the court for Toronto at all this season, and while that may have aided the tanking efforts, it could have serious implications for the team's future.
That’s the tough reality we face. But as Raptors fans, we stay resilient and hold onto the hope that things will turn out for the best.