Apr 15, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas (17) shoots the ball as Charlotte Hornets center Bismack Biyombo (8) defends during the first half at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Toronto Raptors
Last Year’s Outcome: 49-33, L, First Round
Best-Case Scenario: Reach Second Round In Playoffs
Why: The Toronto Raptors, despite winning their division in the regular season, were one of them most disappointing teams come playoff time. And even though a huge part of their playoff collapse had to do with the Washington Wizards coming into their own, the Raptors didn’t do themselves any favors by completely wetting the bed in the postseason.
With their current roster, which now features a slimmed down Kyle Lowry, I believe that their ceiling, with how the rest of the Eastern Conference has also evolved this offseason, is a first round series win. I don’t see this current Raptors team as one of the top-4 teams in the Eastern Conference, and last year’s postseason appearance only validates that thought process.
Worst-Case Scenario: Miss Playoffs
Why: If the Raptors get off to a shaky start to this season, I wouldn’t put it past them to try and move DeMar DeRozan, who could become an unrestricted free agent next summer – there are already rumblings about that possibility. If Toronto elects to go down that route, the Raptors would miss the playoffs.
Especially with the new NBA rule, which states that a division champion isn’t guaranteed a playoff spot anymore.
What Will Probably Happen: First Round Playoff Exit
Why: I expect this team to stick together and make the playoffs once again.
However, I don’t expect much from them once they get into the NBA’s version of the Big Dance. Facing off, probably, against one of the top-4 teams in the East – the Heat, Cavs, Hawks or Bulls – and I can can see the Raptors making another brief playoff appearance.
Next: Utah Jazz