The Toronto Raptors are currently undergoing a transition period as they shift from one era to another. Having secured playoff berths in eight out of nine seasons from 2014 to 2022, the team is now in the initial phases of a rebuilding process that will shape the future of Raptors basketball.
Following the departure of key players such as OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam, along with the loss of Fred VanVleet last summer, Toronto is now evaluating which players on their roster are essential for their future success. Fortunately, the ongoing season has provided valuable insights for the team’s management in determining the core pieces that should remain with the team in the long run.
Here are three Raptors players whose performances this season have solidified their status as indispensable assets to the team.
Immanuel Quickley
Upon arriving in Toronto through the trade that sent OG Anunoby to New York, Immanuel Quickley swiftly emerged as one of the Raptors’ key players. Many were taken aback by the Knicks’ willingness to part with him, but his exceptional shooting skills quickly earned him a spot in Toronto’s starting lineup.
Quickley, a dynamic scoring guard, has significantly impacted defensive strategies with his sharpshooting abilities. He’s currently enjoying a career-best season, averaging 17.7 points per game while shooting an impressive 39.7% from beyond the arc with the Raptors. His playing style complements that of versatile players like Scottie Barnes, and he’s being utilized to great effect within the team.
As the Raptors embark on their journey of drafting and trading to construct a playoff-worthy team once more, Quickley is undoubtedly viewed as a foundational piece for their future success.
