Toronto Raptors: Ranking the projected starting lineup for 2021

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 11: The Toronto Raptors teammates Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors and OG Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors react during the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics in Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Second Round during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 11, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 11: The Toronto Raptors teammates Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors and OG Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors react during the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics in Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Second Round during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 11, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
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Toronto Raptors
Toronto Raptors coach Nick Nurse (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Ranking the Toronto Raptors’ projected starting lineup

Adaptation has become synonymous with the Toronto Raptors, as of recent. Tweaks to their starting lineup have been routine for the past few seasons. And just like those seasons, this year’s team should be able to mix the right pieces together and hold poise amongst the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference.

The Toronto Raptors have had some changes to their roster over the free agency period, making us wonder what their projected starting five will be. The Raps lost Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol to the LA Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers, but were able to bring in Aron Baynes, Alex Len, Deandre Bembry, and re-sign Chris Boucher.

Most Raptor fans are accustomed to the core group of players that have been staples throughout the past couple of years. So, the starting lineup should be pretty set for at least the beginning of the season, barring injuries. You never know with Nick Nurse though – the guy loves mixing things up – which provides more opportunity for us NBA fans to form speculations.

Each starter’s importance will vary this season because of recent departures. Heavier usage and accountability of production will be needed by players, that in the past, had smaller roles.

Taking these factors into account, here is a ranking of the projected starting lineup for the Toronto Raptors.