NY Knicks Rivals: How does the Atlantic Division stack up post-deadline?
By Adam Kester
NY Knicks Atlantic Division Rivals: The Toronto Raptors
The Raptors started off the season slowly, and it felt like they could be in a post-Kawhi drought.
It was certainly debatable as to who the better team was between Toronto and the NY Knicks at the start of the season. It’s not much of one anymore.
Even with whatever lumps have come up along the way, the Toronto Raptors have essentially accomplished what the NY Knicks are hoping to do.
Their roster is construed of some great, All-Star level players in their prime with Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam while developing some fantastic young talents in Scottie Barnes, Gary Trent Jr., OG Anunoby, and Malachi Flynn. Most importantly, they’re winning.
No one expects the Raptors to win a title.
However, everyone understands that it’s a great place to play and it’s a place where you can win.
They have a strong foundation and longevity within the front office and coaching staff, they develop players, and they can attract big talent. They have positioned themselves in the exact way that the NY Knicks felt as though they themselves were positioned last season.
The Raptors don’t have the star power of the Celtics, 76ers, and Nets — but they do have the organizational foundation and consistent success that is built to last. This team isn’t title contenders, but they are an organization accustomed to winning.