8. Toronto Raptors
Speaking of Pascal Siakam, the Toronto Raptors have much to prove this season. Interestingly enough, I have no idea what to expect from them. There are valid reasons on both ends of the spectrum that suggest the Raptors should be either hitting the reset button or making a move forward toward contention. At this point, Toronto needs to pick a path forward and fully buy into it. Right now, they have the feel of a team that doesn’t know what they want.
Ultimately, I believe that’s going to be their downfall this season. The Raptors seem perfectly fine on letting Pascal Siakam play out his contract (he could test free agency after this season) and this season largely hinges on the continued progression of Scottie Barnes.
If the Raptors are going to have any shot of being ultra-competitive in the Eastern Conference, it will fall on the shoulders of Barnes. He’s the one player on the team that can drastically alter and raise the ceiling for Toronto this season. However, I’m not sure that’s fair or realistic expectations to place on his shoulders.