Now that the Raptors have brought in Hedo Turkoglu, Jarrett Jack, Rasho Nesterovic and Marco Belinelli, I can very well see this team right back in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
But the thing that sticks out in my mind, and will be a big reason WHY the Raptors are successful, is a healthy Jose Calderon. Back in Janurary, Calderon strained his hamstring, and for about 3 1/5 months, wasn't the same. He didn't get up and down the court like he did in November and December. He was more cautious. Now, he's had a full summer to let the hamstring heal, and I think his play will be a deciding factor as to how successful the Raptors will be. Many fans thought Calderon had a bad year last season--with another year of starting experience under his belt and a healthy leg, I think he'll silence those critics in 2009-2010.
I can very well see the Raptors getting the 4 seed, worst case scenario 5 seed, in next years playoffs. I don't think a first round exit is in store for the Raptors, either--at WORST, I think the Raptors will make the conference semi-finals. Bryan Colangelo has upgraded the Raptors tremendously, and I believe they will be right in the thick of things in the Eastern Conference.
Bryan Colangelo has done whatever he can to force Chris Bosh to stay in Toronto. This is a make or break year for Bosh--if the Raptors have another disappointment, you can kiss the Chris Bosh era goodbye. If the team does well, Bosh may stay.
Hopefully, all goes well in Raptorland in 2009-2010.
Look for Jose to average a double-double this season!
ReplyDeleteI really think that Jose will be a top PG in the East next year. I think were in store for a MONSTER year from Jose.
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