Toronto Raptors Leaving Options Open for Retooling Roster Before Season End

The Toronto Raptors are one week away from playing their first preseason game. Excitement continues to build now that seven-time All-Star Kawhi Leonard is back with the franchise. For the first time since he won Finals MVP in Toronto’s first and only championship, the Raptors have a real chance to make another run this season. 

In order to contend for the championship, general manager Bobby Webster must do his job to put together the best roster possible around Leonard and franchise cornerstone Scottie Barnes. There have been lots of doubts about the other three starters because of the poor production-to-compensation ratio, and the bench is still very young and inexperienced.

During the first press conference for the franchise, Webster was asked about the maneuverability with the team’s cap space, and if he felt they were locked in or could spend more.

“We have a first-round pick in each of the next four years; I think that’s important to note,” said Webster. “I think we’re a million [dollars] over the [luxury] tax, but similar to last year, you can see how it goes, and you can get under if you need to. You can also add to it if you feel like the team was in position [to contend for a championship] … If we wanna go for it, we still can go for it … there’s definitely more [meat] left on the bone.”

His answer directly addressed the team’s final open standard contract spot remaining, and the impact of potentially being over the luxury tax. What may have gone under the radar was the confidence he had in doing whatever it takes to get the roster as close to its ceiling as possible. Whether that means spending extra on a premium free agent or making a dynamic trade during the season, management doesn’t seem too worried about giving up more money to get closer to its ultimate goal.

This is especially true considering Webster’s mention of the team’s four first-round picks in as many years. Those picks aren’t as relevant for teams aiming to win the championship, so one can infer that he isn’t afraid to attach them to another explosive trade as he did for Leonard. Considering how valuable he has viewed the franchise’s draft capital since being promoted to head of basketball operations, this is a noticeable shift in mindset that should not be overlooked. 

Just because he displayed confidence doesn’t mean anything major will happen soon. With Leonard receiving a two-year extension, the Raptors are looking at a realistic three-year championship window at least, so there’s no need to rush a costly trade just yet. If Webster feels the team is close, but needs just a little more by the midseason deadline, he could make a minor addition to fill one need. If the team has a glaring issue after this season, then Webster can be more bold and make another splash trade to potentially add a third All-Star. For now, the Raptors will look to be the better team every night and see how the roster flows next to its newest superstar.