October 10, 2019
Toronto Raptors
Vegas Over/Under: 48.5
Fromal’s Record Projection: 48-34
The Bet: Prevent but lean under
Even though the Toronto Raptors’ offseason could be deemed a positive because they were able to keep Kyle Lowry and Serge Ibaka, they didn’t escape scot-free.
Cory Joseph and DeMarre Carroll were traded away to fresh locations, which puts much more strain on Delon Wright and new registering C.J. Miles to fill the shoes of the departed contributors.
Fortunately, they should be able to.
Joseph was not especially successful in Toronto, and Wright has significantly more upside as Lowry’s primary backup. And following Carroll proved a bust on his new arrangement, Miles should match with his spot-up prowess and willingness to do the small things well.
All these are powerful but largely lateral motions, including high floors but more than hints at loftier ceilings.
The Raptors went 51-31 final year, and that was an accurate representation of the abilities.
However, regression is coming–not because of roster moves, but instead players slipping down at the leaguewide pecking order. Lowry is just another year removed from his 30th birthday (terrible news for a point guard), Ibaka is no spring chicken and the team is relying on even more youth for its thickness, which could result in some inconsistent showings.
Toronto should still finish towards the top of this Eastern Conference; our projections have them at No. 4. But pushing for 50 wins may be asking a little much.