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Toronto Raptors: 5 reasons to be excited for 2018-19 NBA season

By Jonathan Turco

TORONTO, ON- SEPTEMBER 24 - Masai Ujiri poses with new Toronto Raptors Kawhi Leonard (2) and Danny Green (14) as the Toronto Raptors host their media day before going to Vancouver for their training camp. Media Day was held at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. September 24, 2018. (Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON- SEPTEMBER 24 - Masai Ujiri poses with new Toronto Raptors Kawhi Leonard (2) and Danny Green (14) as the Toronto Raptors host their media day before going to Vancouver for their training camp. Media Day was held at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. September 24, 2018. (Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images) /
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3. Siakam’s claim for MIP

If Fred VanVleet is the “brain” of the Bench Mob, then Pascal “spicy” Siakam is without a doubt the “motor.” Doug Smith, writer for the Toronto Star said this about Siakam:

"“[He] is out there on the court flying around at 100 miles an hour from the first minute he plays until the last, fueled by a seemingly endless supply of energy.”"

Siakam isn’t just a player who can run up and down the court really fast, though. Last year he took strides in developing his game, providing the second unit with an additional playmaking option by becoming more of a point forward, similar to the play style of Golden State Warriors All-Star Draymond Green. This year, Siakam will take further strides, and is projected to be in contention for the NBA’s Most Improved Player award.

Multiple NBA players have told reporters of Siakam’s improved game and for fans to watch out for his highlights. Some of those players includes James Harden, Chris Paul, Russel Westbrook and Paul George, just to name drop a few.

Talent knows talent, and if Siakam can live up to the hype generated around him after his successful offseason, he may be the favorite to win MIP.

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