3. Toronto Raptors
The Toronto Raptors surprised a lot of people during the 2021-22 season when they earned the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference. Many thought this would be a rebuilding season in Toronto and they would be right back in the lottery, but they are ahead of schedule.
Nick Nurse has deployed some unique lineup combinations to help the Toronto Raptors find success on the court. Lacking size up front, Nurse deploys a long, versatile lineup that switches everything and gets after it defensively.
Finding some help in the frontcourt is near the top of their to-do list this offseason as the team could use a center. But, a backup point guard is also a need based on what we saw in the postseason.
Scottie Barnes has assumed the role of a lead playmaker for the Toronto Raptors, with Fred VanVleet operating off the ball as a secondary playmaker. Beyond those two, there isn’t much to rely on other than Malachi Flynn, who went scoreless in his postseason minutes.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Ricky Rubio Predicted To Return To Cavaliers In NBA Free Agency
Ricky Rubio would present an upgrade for the second unit, a veteran more than capable of running the show. His 6’9” wingspan would fit in perfectly with the game plan that Nurse has been deploying, as he is versatile enough to defend both backcourt spots and most wing players.
He could slide right into the Toronto Raptors’ backup point guard spot and even finish games depending on the opponent. His presence would have a sometimes stagnant offense run smoother as he can find his teammates for easy baskets.
