We all know that the 2004/2005 Toronto Raptors Season has been going about as smooth as a well oiled TRAIN WRECK. After that four game win streak to start the season, the wheels have all but come off. Disgruntled players, irate coaches, an aloof GM, and a blood thirsty media, have all but made this campaign a write off. What does this team really have going for it? A budding young star in Chris Bosh, who they will have to hang on to like grim death if they don't want to SELF IMPLODE. Why would anyone on this earth want to play with this team? I just pose the question, "What would you do?"
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting norespect:</div><div class="quote_post">We all know that the 2004/2005 Toronto Raptors Season has been going about as smooth as a well oiled TRAIN WRECK. After that four game win streak to start the season, the wheels have all but come off. Disgruntled players, irate coaches, an aloof GM, and a blood thirsty media, have all but made this campaign a write off. What does this team really have going for it? A budding young star in Chris Bosh, who they will have to hang on to like grim death if they don't want to SELF IMPLODE. Why would anyone on this earth want to play with this team? I just pose the question, "What would you do?"</div> <u>1) Trade Donyell</u> potential suiters = New Jersey, San Antonio, Houston, Sac, Phili, Lakers, +... (I included teams not associated with any current rumours because they could use a player of Donyell's abilities and position for the playoffs) In Return Best Case Scenario: a) A mid first round pick and filler A late first round or early second + expiring contract Worst Case Scenario: c) Quality role player, preferably a center with reasonable contract <u>Trade Eric Williams</u> potential suiters: almost any team Best Case Scenario: a) future second round pick and expiring contract future second round pick and a small(5 mil) trade exception Worst Case Scenario: c) Quality role player, preferably a center with reasonable contract <u>Rafer Alston</u> Best Case Scenario:Hire a former HIGH QUALITY point guard for a coaching position goal: to help mold rafer alston into a passing, penetrating gaurd that doenst get stressed out as much Worst Case Scenario: Trade Rafer, possible in package deal with Donyell or Eric for an average point guard and a first round pick next year. example: Alston and Donyell to Atlanta for Tyronne Lue and a 2005 first rounder. (Atlanta has alot of young talent, already so loosing the pick isnt too bad. Also Donyell could fill the gap, if resigned, that 'Twan will leave when he signs elsewhere. Atlanta is also very needy of a point gaurd that can be a contributer and in the right system and with the right environment Alston is a 16 and 7 guy any day of the week.) <u>2005 NBA Draft</u> (as many as possible in order of importance) a)Draft one of the top 3 point guards, preferably Chris Paul, but either will do. If Alston is still a Rap this will provide a backup that can learn, and also step in if Alston is moved or becomes unplayable due to injury or trade demands. b)Dont draft any PF's!!! Bonner and Sow can handle the back up job. c)Draft a center if possible, but only a quality one. If Araujo does not improve it gives another option. Either way we are in need of a big body since Wood's PT is declining and Marshall will be leaving. d)Draft a quality swingman that can play both ends of the court and can create his own shot. <u>2005 Free Agent Signings</u> (depending on trades and how much salary cap space; also on drafts) a) consider the following players: Joe Johnson, Larry Hughes, Ray Allen, Dan Gadzuric, Shane Battier, Earl Watson, Theo Ratliff, + (if price is right, no Foyle-type contracts)
