While the Toronto Raptors ' playoff run didn't last as long as they would have liked, it's hard not to be impressed with how well this young team did. It did highlight issues that need to be dealt with, one of which could be fixed by bringing Kawhi Leonard back. An opening may appear quite soon.
The Raptors just had one of their best seasons in the last few years. Led by their defensive powerhouse, Scottie Barnes, Toronto forged their way to the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference. They were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs after a brutal seven-game war with the Cavs.
For a young team with little playoff experience, the Raptors did quite well. If nothing else, it gave the coaches and front office a good look at the team and how they performed. This gives them a clear vision of what needs to be changed in the offseason to get ready for next year.
One problem is Jakob Poeltl. He's an okay center, and simply did not play with the hustle or intensity of the rest of the squad. The other issue was Brandon Ingram. He straight-up folded in the playoffs, eventually being benched with a heel issue. Toronto needs more from a starting small forward.
Kawhi Leonard is exactly who Toronto needs
There has been talk of a trade with the Sacramento Kings for Domantas Sabonis that might fix the Raptors' problems at the five. As for Ingram, losing him and bringing Leonard back to T-Dot would be the move. Neither Toronto nor Leonard has accomplished much since they parted ways.
Leonard only played one season with the Raptors, and it was epic. He sank one of the most notorious game seven buzzer beaters in the history of the NBA to defeat the 76ers. Leonard would go on to lead the Raptors to their first and only NBA Championship by defeating the Warriors.
Being that the NBA's investigation into the Clippers' illicit dealings with Leonard could quite easily lead to his contract being nullified, he could end up being a free agent. The Raptors should unquestionably pull the trigger on re-signing him and achieve greatness together one more time.
Combining the defensive prowess of the current Raptors' roster with Leonard's almost supernatural skill and leadership immediately makes this team a contender. It's a reunion that would change the landscape of the NBA for years to come, not to mention bringing another title to Toronto.
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