NBA Rumors: Raptors inch closer to reunion with former franchise stars

Because the Toronto Raptors await the decision on the Kawhi Leonard investigation, they could have their sights set on a reunion with one other former franchise star. Franchise legend DeMar DeRozan is a free agent and may very well be a possible choice for the Raptors, per Doug Smith of the Toronto Star.

If the Raptors have been capable of land each Leonard and DeRozan, that may be a coup. Particularly if the NBA suspends Leonard.

In that case, Toronto may need the higher hand within the commerce with the Los Angeles Clippers. Probably serving to them to retain a few of their picks. Moreover, the Raptors may nonetheless re-sign DeRozan, although he’d need to take a step paycut.

The Raptors could reunite with each Kawhi Leonard and DeMar DeRozan

Reuniting with each Leonard and DeRozan can be a dream come true for Raptors followers. In any case, each rank among the many finest gamers in franchise historical past.

Nonetheless, reuniting with each would not be a nostalgia act. Every may assist the Raptors emerge as true contenders. The truth is, Leonard is coming off arguably one of the best season of his profession.

Even regardless of damage issues and the investigation surrounding him, he’d be an enormous enchancment over Brandon Ingram. As for DeRozan, he’s nonetheless an above-average scorer and playmaker.

The Raptors cannot afford to let this chance go

The Raptors clearly aren’t content material being a lower-end playoff group. Sadly, they’ve restricted methods to enhance. Subsequently, they need to seize the chance to amass two proficient gamers who truly wish to be in Toronto.

In doing so, they may emerge as contenders within the Japanese Convention and probably even problem the New York Knicks. On the very least, they’d hold tempo with groups such because the Indiana Pacers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Warmth.

Every of these groups is projected to be much better subsequent season. Because of this, a reunion with Leonard and DeRozan may make loads of sense for the Raptors.