Raptors' Season Review: Uncertainty Surrounds the Core

The Toronto Raptors' 2022-2023 season has come to a close, and while the team showed flashes of brilliance, there are still many questions surrounding the core of the roster. As the team heads into the offseason, fans and analysts alike are left wondering what the future holds for this talented but inconsistent group.

The Raptors finished the season with a 37-45 record, good for 9th place in the Eastern Conference. While they missed the playoffs, there were moments of excitement and promise, particularly from the team's young core. Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes were two of the bright spots, with Siakam averaging 24.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, and Barnes chipping in with 15.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.

Grading the Core

So, how did the Raptors' core performers grade out this season?

• Pascal Siakam: B+ - Siakam was the team's most consistent player, and his numbers reflect his importance to the team. However, he struggled with injuries and inconsistency at times, which prevented him from earning an A grade.
• Scottie Barnes: B- - Barnes had an impressive sophomore season, showing flashes of brilliance on both ends of the floor. However, he still needs to work on his shooting and decision-making to take his game to the next level.
• OG Anunoby: C+ - Anunoby's season was marred by injuries, and when he did play, he struggled to find his rhythm. He's still a key piece of the team's core, but he needs to stay healthy and find his form.
• Fred VanVleet: C- - VanVleet had a disappointing season, struggling with his shooting and decision-making. He's still a valuable member of the team, but he needs to bounce back next season.

Offseason Questions

As the Raptors head into the offseason, there are many questions surrounding the core of the roster. Will the team try to sign a big free agent to bolster the roster? Will they make a trade to shake things up? Or will they stick with the current core and hope for internal development?

The answers to these questions will have a significant impact on the team's future. The Raptors have a talented young core, but they need to surround them with the right pieces to compete in the Eastern Conference. The offseason will be crucial in determining the team's trajectory, and fans will be watching with bated breath to see what moves the front office makes.

The Toronto Raptors' season may be over, but the questions surrounding the core of the roster are just beginning. As the team heads into the offseason, there are many uncertainties about what the future holds. Will the team make a push for the playoffs next season, or will they take a step back and rebuild? One thing is certain - the Raptors have a talented young core, and with the right moves, they can compete with the best of the best in the NBA.

For now, fans will have to wait and see what the offseason brings. But one thing is for sure - the Raptors will be an interesting team to watch in the years to come. With a talented young core and a front office that's not afraid to make moves, the future is bright in Toronto.