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2012-13 NBA Preview: Toronto Raptors
- Updated: October 13, 2012
10. Toronto Raptors
HOW THEY CAN WIN: Don’t look now, but the Raptors have turned into an exciting basketball team. Toronto has rallied behind this young group, and their team just may reward them with a playoff run this season. DeMar DeRozan has become more than just one of the league’s best dunkers, putting up 16.7 points per game last season. Andrea Bargnani took a step forward in 2011-12, posting 19.5 ppg. But it’s the addition of Lithuanian monster Jonas Valanciunas, the fifth pick in the 2011 NBA draft, that has Canada’s team buzzing. The 6-11 Valanciunas could be one of the best rookies in the league.
WHY THEY WON’T: The Raptors are still young, and although DeRozan has made strides, he’s still not a go-to scorer down the stretch in games. Bargnani hasn’t quite played up to his No. 1 draft pick status, and there’s not much depth on this roster. Oh, and we didn’t even mention the ridiculous megadeal the team gave Landry Fields.
FINAL DESTINATION: If everything falls into place and Valanciunas plays like a top pick, Toronto could be a surprise playoff team this season. If it doesn’t, they may win 25 games. The future looks good, though.