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Toronto’s title chances blew out the window just a little over two and a half weeks ago, courtesy of Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers. The Sixers went on to win the Best-Of-Seven series at 4 games to 2, besting them in a Game 6 on the road 132-97. Despite clawing back into the series after being down three games to none, and winning 2 out of the final 3 games, the 48-34 fifth-seeded Raps shortly became extinct.

Looking Ahead to the 2022-23 Season

Now that their season is officially over, and the ultimate goal of winning their second NBA championship in four years is out of the question, Toronto will begin readying their squad and prepping for the next run they have in them. Despite losing in the Quarterfinals, this team has much to look forward to, and they shouldn’t be ashamed nor disappointed in their postseason play. Of course though, no fan wishes that their respective team be eliminated; especially at this point. No! You want them to keep winning and winning until they’re the last team standing. Well, Raptors’ fans, while you aren’t still physically cheering your team on, rejoice, because there is plenty to be exited about!

Force To Be Reckoned With

The Toronto Raptors are making a name for themselves yet again. Now over three years absent from the Kawhi Leonard era, they are still finding ways to remain relevant and in the competition. It was apparent in the first round, that even though the Raps aren’t quite as star studded anymore; they can still go out, win games, and be a force in this league. And each year they are just going to keep improving on their strengths and amending their weaknesses. Their roster is among some of the youngest, ranking in the bottom half of the NBA at 14 with the average age being 25.6 years. Still a few slots below the leagues median age, which sits at 26.2 years old. Ahead of them, is of course the Thunder, followed by the Grizzlies, Magic, Hornets, Timberwolves, Rockets, Cavaliers, Pelicans, Pistons, Bulls, Wizards, Spurs and lastly the Kings. To go along with depth and youth, another advantage for Toronto is the height and width across their roster. A whopping total of 11 players register at 6’7” or taller for the Raptors, giving them the luxury of being able to switch on defense with ease. Not to mention the ability to space the floor, grab boards, and create all types of mismatches on both sides for their opponents.

Some Things To Remember

If you were not already aware, which you should be, all of the NBA’s awards for the ‘21-‘22 Season have been announced and set in stone. And had you been paying attention, you’d know that freshman Scottie Barnes took home Rookie of the Year! His numbers, which were impressive to say the least, stood at 15.3 pts, 7.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, with a PER of 16.37 percent. Barnes did suffer a minor injury to his foot/ankle area on April 16th in Game 1 vs the 76ers, but was able to come back and rejoin the lineup in Game 3 at home just four days later. Fred VanVleet, who was dealing with a left hip flexor strain in Game 4, hoped to return and guide his team further into the postseason, but ultimately couldn’t. Not to worry there, as far as injuries and health concerns go for the Raptors those were the only two in recency. Rest assured, because they’ll have a full squad heading into the offseason and in plenty of time for training camps. Also just announced to the association and all fans included, were the NBA All Rookie First and Second Teams. One of the three players unanimously voted onto the 1st team, was, yup you guessed it, our very own Scottie Barnes! Evan Mobley of the Cavaliers and Cade Cunningham from the Pistons were the others. Add yet one more accolade to the fast-growing resume for the 4th overall selection!! What a round out to an impressive and stellar beginning to what is hopefully a long, prosperous NBA career!

More news to come on the Raptors shortly! This article was posted first on Fantom Sports. Check us out for all things NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB and more. While you’re at it get yourself some gear from our online shop! Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube!