Take a trip down memory lane and learn about the members of the Toronto Raptors who you may not associate with the franchise.
In the annals of the NBA, it’s easy to forget that the Toronto Raptors are still a relatively young franchise. The New Orleans Pelicans are the only team that was founded more recently than the Raptors, while the Memphis Grizzlies (then in Vancouver) were founded in the same year as the Raptors, 1995.
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In the 25 years the Raptors have existed, there have been plenty of ups and downs. The team didn’t have their first winning record until the 1999-2000 season. They failed to even advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time until four years ago.
They also watched as the Grizzlies relocated from Vancouver to Memphis, leaving the Toronto Raptors as the lone Canadian representative in the NBA, a status they hold to this day. That made it all the more special when Toronto won their first title last year, bringing the country together in a celebration for the ages.
Many NBA (and Raptors) fans can name some of the major greats who have played for the franchise in its infancy. Vince Carter was the first major star to be associated with the team. He passed the mantle to Chris Bosh, who in turn passed it to the duo of Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan upon his departure. Kawhi Leonard led the way last year and Pascal Siakam should lead for years to come.
But who are the forgotten Raptors of yesteryear? Here are ten players you may not have known played for the team.