With a new-look roster led by Kawhi Leonard, the Raptors hoped that a reshuffled roster could get them further in the playoffs than in previous years. To that end, they made a splashy acquisition at the trade deadline, getting Marc Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies.
After playing his entire career to that point with the Grizzlies, Gasolโs departure from Memphis was obviously emotional for that teamโs fanbase. Now that the Raptors have successfully made the Finals for the first time in franchise history, Gasolโs old Grizzlies buddies are in their corner, including his long-time point guard Mike Conley.
The Raptors may be underdogs against the Warriors in the Finals, but considering their ascendance this year (and maybe some Warriors fatigue), Toronto may be an easy team for NBA fans to root for.
Even Charles Barkley is taking the Raps in the Finals!
