The Pitt Perspective

to say it is an intriguing move would be an understatement. Kawhi Leonard was officially traded to the raptors for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first round picks, a lock swap, and two second round picks. Although at surface value this output from the raptors seems significant, however, one could posit it isn’t such. Admittedly, the picks the Raps gave up could prove valuable, but the Gradey and BI pieces are quite neutral. Gradey has shown flashes, but hasn’t been anything near prolific in a Raptors uniform. As for BI, I honestly think he’s not a huge loss. While being productive for us, I think he’s an empty Carolina scorer, and will never be on a high calibre team. Transitioning the the Kawhi side of it, at worst getting Kawhi is exciting. Although there are certainly concerns with his availability, as he’s missed 202 202 regular season games in the last five years. I will address the injury misfortune in a moment, but at very worst Kawhi joining the raptors provides intrigue to a team that was somewhat on the periphery. The raptors fans experienced a utopian version of Kawhi in 2019. He was at the peak of his powers, and played a lot of games. Since then, we have not seen the same Kawhi. As previously listed, he’s missed 202 regular season games since 2021. That doesn’t include the numerous playoff games he missed. Okay, let’s be optimistic. Let’s say Kawhi stays healthy, so the raptors have a chance to compete. Honestly, the odds don’t favour us. Despite having a talented young roster, team like OKC and San Antonio and still in theory better than the best version of Toronto. This is mainly because I doubt Kawhi is the best player in the league anymore when healthy. Still a very formidable, top 7-8 player in the league, probably, but I think he’s a couple steps behind his ‘19 glory. An interesting wrinkle is that Kawhi went to another country with his current Aspirations scandal. A man must applaud such a dedicated teee planter, taking his talents to another country. Ultimately, time will tell how this move plays out. As a raptors fan I hope for the best, but fear we are years past it with Kawhi.