Masai Ujiri and the Raptors: A New Beginning 

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Masai Ujiri and the Raptors: A New Beginning 

A Legacy to Evaluate

On the night of June 13, 2019, while the Toronto Raptors celebrated their first NBA title, it was leaked that the Washington Wizards were trying to lure their president, Masai Ujiri, with a staggering financial offer. Although this opportunity did not materialize, it highlighted Ujiri’s value, who transformed the franchise from a team that lost players to one that became champions.

Changes in Ownership

Recently, there has been a change in ownership at Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, leading Rogers Communications to take majority control. Ujiri, while maintaining a good relationship with Ed Rogers, faces increased precariousness in his position, as it has been reported that the new executive showed reluctance to approve his compensation package.

Post-Kawhi Era

After the departures of key figures like Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry, the transition has not been easy. Ujiri delayed the team’s rebuilding, resulting in the loss of foundational players like Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby without adequate return. Now, the team focuses on new talents like Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley, but rebuilding takes time.

Future Prospects

The projections for this season are discouraging. The Raptors are expected to struggle to compete, with a roster that is young but lacks depth. If they manage to achieve 30 wins, they would surpass their Vegas projections, but the reality is that they will face several teams that seem to be well ahead in the playoff race. Fans will be closely watching the performance of this modest club this season and the NBA ODDS.

A rookie coach in Darko Rajaković, a young rising star like Barnes, a miserable record (25-57), and the remnants of a good but stalled veteran core replaced by an influx of new players with shooting, playmaking, and experienced youth (Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, Ochai Agbaji, Kelly Olynyk, Ja’Kobe Walter, Davion Mitchell, among others) surrounding Barnes. The change, I would venture to guess, will marginally affect their record, but it will also place them on a new trajectory.

We know the old tale well. The next year, Masai swoops in, transforms the team with a few magical tweaks and savvy moves, and the rest is history.

What Does Ujiri Need?

The question now is: how many wins does Ujiri need to secure his position? This dilemma is new for a franchise that has been successful under his leadership, but the pressure is greater than ever.