The 2006 Toronto Raptors have the great honor of being a team that nobody knows about. In addition to their superstar Chris Bosh, the Raptors are full of new acquisitions and draft picks. And even though they don’t play in a tough division or conference, it’s hard to imagine this motley crew making the playoffs.
As mentioned above, Chris Bosh is the future of the Toronto Raptors. His career-high numbers of 22.5 points per game and 9.2 rebounds cemented him as one of the best young big men in the game today. The Raptors expect him to be even better this season in both categories.
At swing positions, the Raptors’ key players are Morris Peterson and Joey Graham. Morris Peterson is the only player to have been with the Raptors five seasons ago, and he’s a reliable shooting threat who can stay healthy and play eighty-two games a year. Morris had a career season, along with Bosh, in a bigger role last year and averaged nearly seventeen points per game. Expect more of the same this season as he will be relied on for mid-range and long-range shots. Graham is a young forward who is expected to become a good bench option soon. Another player to consider in the rotation is former Indiana Pacer Fred Jones.
At point guard are former Buck TJ Ford and José Calderón. Ford is a good point guard in terms of passing, but his shot is often suspect and his size leaves him vulnerable on defense most of the time. However, his speed should help the Raptors pick up the pace of the game. Behind him is Calderón, who is one of the best European point guards. He played for the Raptors last season and did an admirable job, averaging 9 points and 7.5 assists as a starter.
At the center position is another new acquisition in Rasho Nesterovic. He’s a mediocre player who won’t have much of an impact on his new team. One advantage is that he has experience playing alongside talented big men and should help make Chris Bosh an even better player. First-round pick Andreas Bargnani may also get playing time.
The Raptors probably won’t be a good team, let alone a playoff team. They have good young talent, but not enough to compete yet. Fortunately, they have one of the best young players in the league to build on.
