This upcoming season is an important one for the Toronto Raptors, being their 30th season as a franchise.
To celebrate this milestone, Toronto revealed the iconic purple jerseys as their “Classic Edition” jersey this season. A jersey that was worn by Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter, two of the greatest Raptors ever.
With fans clamoring for those jerseys, they get their wish. Also, Carter is getting his No. 15 retired in Scotiabank Arena. With those two surprises being revealed, more could be lined up as the season progresses.
However, the players also understand the importance of being a part of the Raptors 30th season. One of those players is center Kelly Olynyk, who grew up as a Raptors fan and is now playing for Toronto. He spoke about the milestone season for the Raptors via TSN’s Josh Lewenberg:
“I remember when the Raptors first came here, watching on TV, listening on the radio, going to games in the SkyDome with binoculars from the very top… it’s really special to be a part of.”
This is a tremendous honor for Olynyk to play for the team he grew up watching. While winning may not be a priority, there is still a desire for the Raptors to make this season one to remember.
With Scottie Barnes being the new face of the franchise, he possesses a lot of pressure to turn this team around. But, veterans like Olynyk also have an important role in helping Toronto’s young players.
After coming to terms on a contract extension, Olynyk is in Toronto for a few more years and can use his experience from winning franchises’ and apply to the Raptors situation.
Notably, Olynyk played for the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat. Therefore, the 33-year-old can still provide production, in addition to valuable knowledge.
All in all, the Raptors should be slated to win more than 25 games if Barnes, Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett all stay healthy.
Yet, it will be interesting to see how much of a difference having veterans on the roster makes.
Kelly Olynyk discusses ‘gauntlet’ of hardships this season
Last season featured an unfamiliar amount of losing for the Raptors. Olynyk discussed the ‘gauntlet’ of hardships the team faced and hopefully brighter times are ahead.
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