The Toronto Raptors have high expectations heading into this season.
After several years of rebuilding, the Toronto Raptors have put together a team that can compete in the East.
Scottie Barnes’ Raptors hope to take advantage of a weak conference to get back into the playoffs.
The Raptors have an expensive team, so they can’t afford any more mistakes. They have to go out there and perform at a high level.
The Raptors surprised many when they traded for Brandon Ingram at last season’s trade deadline.
Many have questioned this move considering the Raptors are rebuilding and also have RJ Barrett operating in the same space as Ingram.
However, during the preseason, both players showed they can work well together.
Former Raptors legend Tracy McGrady spoke about the Raptors heading into this season and questioned whether the two players can coexist. He wants to see if they can put their egos aside for the betterment of the team.
“They were sleeping. They have a lot of players who play similar positions. And for me, it comes down to ego.
“BI (Brandon Ingram) and RJ (Barrett) played very well last year, so adding BI to this team will hopefully allow him to play that type of basketball.”
“But can those guys coexist and make sacrifices? If one is having a great week or a great month, can the other make sacrifices without trying to surpass him?
“My only complaint with the Toronto Raptors is can they put their egos aside?
“I love Quickley at that point guard position. I think they have a very talented, deep team, but it’s all about coming together and leaving egos out the door. And let’s see what we can do with this.”
“I think they could be right up there with the Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks.”
The Raptors last made the playoffs in the 2021-22 season.
Since then, the Raptors have experienced play-in exits and back-to-back lottery seasons.
The Raptors have big salaries with Ingram, Barrett, Barnes, and Immanuel Quickley, but the hope is that this group can make some noise.
For the Raptors to ultimately be successful, they will need multiple players to step up heading into this season and Ingram to stay healthy.