I was a bit hesistant to write about this article in particular, because there are already so many similar articles all over the internet on the Toronto Raptors unprecedented success this season. However, I dediced to write for the sake of those who might have been missing out on one of the better kept secrets of this seasons NBA.

Considering they were champions in 2019 and serious contenders in 2020, a few casual fans may find it difficult to believe that this team entered the season with little expectations from their fans and even their management. This is owing to the departure of some of their best players, most notably legendary Point Guard Kyle Lowry who joined the Miami Heat.

Being a league filled with stars, skills play a very big role in a teams success, sometimes more than strategy. Hence the departure of some of their biggest names coupled with the woeful 2021 season which saw them end the season with a losing record (27 -45). although one can rightly argue that Covid had a big role to play in their performance.

Therefore the 2022 season was termed as one of rebuilding with a relatively young, but obviously talented roster, No one expected the raptors to play so well with their youngsters, especially the very rapid development of people like 2021 NBA 4th round draft pick Scottie Barnes and second year Rookie Precious Achiuwa. The former in particular is a serious contender for Rookie of the year and has been making some really high quality plays as though he was a seasoned NBA veteran.

Then you add people like Pascal Siakam, Fred Vanvleet, Og Anunoby and Gary Trent Jnr who make up the core 4 of experienced players in their starting 5 (Scottie Barnes being the final starter). It is quite noteworthy to state that the average age of the Team is just 24.6 years, the youngest in the NBA. What they may lack in experience they certainly make up in raw skill, hustle and determination to win.

Currently, the team is seated 5th in the conference standings and appear primed for an automatic playoff slot. Should that be the case with about six games to the end of the season, the question on everyone's lips is just how far the Raptors team can go, having already exceeded expectations. Can they go all the way and Win the NBA title against some more heavily favored teams?

I do not think the team will indeed go all the way, but I do believe they would give any team they face a good run for their money. What's more, the experience this young team gathers here is going to be invaluable in a few years. We may yet see them as serious contenders as early as next year.

Conclusion

They are certainly one of the most exciting teams to watch and President Masai Ujiri along with Coach Nick Nurse have simply done a fantastic job. There is certainly a bright future ahead of this team.