The Toronto Raptors used this off-season to increase the talent level of their roster even more. Last season, the Raptors surprised everyone by greatly improving after the Rudy Gay trade. This season, they could be even better with added depth.
The Raptors first order of business was to re-sign Kyle Lowry. During the first week of costless agency, they did just that. They did not allow other teams to snatch Lowry away from them. Lowry played an enormous part in last season’s success for Toronto. He averaged 17.9 points, 7.4 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. Lowry is one of the best rebounding point guards and plays with a chip on his shoulder every game. The Raptors definitely had to bring him back, so they did an excellent job of reaching an agreement on a reasonable four-year, $48 million deal.
Another important move the Raptors made this summer was re-signing Greivis Vasquez. The Raptors acquired Vasquez from the Sacramento Kings via Rudy Gay trade, and he was an impressive backup point guard to Kyle Lowry. Vasquez has great size for a point guard and has been an improving play maker and shooter.
The Raptors also made a trade with the Atlanta Hawks to acquire Lou Williams. Coming off the bench, Williams, although a bit inefficient, will provide scoring. However, he is an undersized shooting guard, which could hurt the Raptors on defense.
James Johnson was another solid addition to the Raptors roster. Johnson had offensive bursts from time to time with the Memphis Grizzlies. He is athletic, versatile, and could play the three or the four. Jordan Hamilton is an additional wing player Toronto has added to its bench. Hamilton will deliver more shooting for the Raptors second unit.
Yet another move the Raptors made was re-signing Patrick Patterson, which was an underrated move. In 48 games for the Raptors last season, Patterson averaged 9.1 points and 5.1 rebounds. He plays with sufficient amount of offensive energy and plays with plenty of intensity on the defensive end.
Moreover, to solidify their frontcourt depth, Toronto signed Greg Stiemsma. The six-eleven big man is extremely long and lengthy. He is known for his shot blocking and rebounding. His presence may be needed, especially if injuries occur.
The Toronto Raptors have added so much depth this off-season to their roster. They have at least three worthy players for each positon and look to make an even greater jump this season. They were incredibly active this summer and have built a roster that could possibly compete with the big dogs, such as the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers.
Grade: A-
Depth Chart:
PG: Kyle Lowry/Greivis Vasquez/Will Cherry
SG: Terrence Ross/Lou Williams/Landry Fields
SF: DeMar DeRozan/James Johnson/Jordan Hamilton/Bruno Caboclo
PF: Amir Johnson/Pattrick Patterson/Tyler Hansbrough
C: Jonas Valanciunas/Chuck Hayes/Greg Stiemsma/Lucas Nogueira
Coach: Dwane Casey