2008 Outlook

The Toronto Raptors hoped to repeat 2006-2007’s performance as Atlantic Division Champions, but the team faced tougher competition within the division as the Celtics' two big offseason acquisitions thrust them to the top of the Atlantic. The Raptors remain intact for a long run of great seasons with power forward Chris Bosh, athletic forward Jamario Moon, and young, talented center Andrea Bargnani poised to make teams front line the most talented in the Eastern Conference. The Raptors hope to keep point guard Jose Calderon after his breakout season.

Team History

The Toronto Raptors joined the NBA’s eastern Division as an expansion team in 1995. The team was one of two teams that year inducted form Canada, the other being the Vancouver Grizzlies. The team struggled early on until a trade on draft day in 1998 landed them Vince Carter.

Carter would over shadow his cousin Tracy McGrady, who had jumped to the NBA out of high school and drafted by the Raptors the year before. The explosive Carter would take the Raptors to the playoffs in 2000, 2001, and 2002. The Carter-led Raptors would go to the Eastern Conference championship in 2001, although they would lose to the 76ers.

The Raptors success began to fade as Carter endured season plagued injuries. Eventually, Carter demanded to be traded in 2004 and the team was left to rely on the slight shoulders of 2003 draft pick Chris Bosh. The Raptors returned to the playoffs in 2006, led by rising star Bosh and an international team featuring center Bargnani, small forward Jorge Garbajosa, and point guard Calderon. To see the international squad of the Toronto Raptors visit TheSeats.com for the best tickets.