With Hedo's imminent arrival to north of the border, it seems as if Bryan Colangelo is trying to replicate the Magic's nucleus that lead them en route to the NBA finals. With their current starting lineup of Calderon, Derozan, Bargnani and Bosh, it looks as if they already have the important pieces. Calderon is an established point (every bit as good as Jameer, if not better) Demar the highly athletic 2 who will adhere the major perimeter defensive responsibilities, i.e Kobe (much like Lee), Hedo as Hedo (playmaker), Bargnani as the 7 ft. version of Lewis (scary) and Bosh to play primarily down the paint like Howard, (more post moves, but obviously without the "Absolute Monster of a Man" like presence and defensive prowess). Though with Hedo's arrival, comes with him a severe price, with the Raptors losing several key members of their rotation (notably Parker and Delfino, who considered returning next season). While their staring lineup is established, acquiring a key rotational player (think Pietrus) is a "MUST" for the Raptors to have ay chance of somehow duplicating the Magic's unexpected success last season (though highly unlikely, due to the Cavs recent 'Colossal" acquisition).
Very interesting post, but I dont like Hedo in TO. They could be a run and gun team if they keep Marion, who is also cheaper then Hedo, and plays better D
I think Bargs and Derozan can provide some, Bargs more, Derozan less. Bargs has vastly improved since his rookie year, and the knack on the raptors has always been lack of perimeter D, which Marion can do, but Hedo cant.
With Hedo's imminent arrival to north of the border, it seems as if Bryan Colangelo is trying to replicate the Magic's nucleus that lead them en route to the NBA finals. With their current starting lineup of Calderon, Derozan, Bargnani and Bosh, it looks as if they already have the important pieces. Calderon is an established point (every bit as good as Jameer, if not better) Demar the highly athletic 2 who will adhere the major perimeter defensive responsibilities, i.e Kobe (much like Lee), Hedo as Hedo (playmaker), Bargnani as the 7 ft. version of Lewis (scary) and Bosh to play primarily down the paint like Howard, (more post moves, but obviously without the "Absolute Monster of a Man" like presence and defensive prowess). Though with Hedo's arrival, comes with him a severe price, with the Raptors losing several key members of their rotation (notably Parker and Delfino, who considered returning next season). While their staring lineup is established, acquiring a key rotational player (think Pietrus) is a "MUST" for the Raptors to have ay chance of somehow duplicating the Magic's unexpected success last season (though highly unlikely, due to the Cavs recent 'Colossal" acquisition).