As we gear up for the Toronto Raptors’ 30th season in the NBA, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the greatest players to ever don the Raptors jersey. From Vince Carter to Chris Bosh, DeMar DeRozan, and Kyle Lowry, these players have left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Let’s start with Chris Bosh, who was drafted by the Raptors with the fourth pick in the 2003 draft. Bosh quickly made a name for himself as a star player, stepping up when Vince Carter departed from the team. His leadership on and off the court earned him five All-Star appearances and a spot on the All-NBA team. Bosh was the driving force behind the Raptors’ success in the early 2000s, leading the team to multiple postseason appearances.
Vince Carter, another Raptors legend, was instrumental in putting Toronto on the map. Carter led the team to its first-ever playoff appearance and continued to push the Raptors to new heights during his time with the franchise. With five All-Star selections and two All-NBA team nods, Carter solidified his place as one of the greatest Raptors of all time.
DeMar DeRozan’s journey with the Raptors was one of perseverance and growth. Despite a rocky start, DeRozan blossomed into a star player, helping lead the team to multiple playoff runs. His impact on the court was undeniable, as he earned four All-Star selections and two All-NBA team honors during his time in Toronto.
Last but certainly not least, Kyle Lowry rounds out the list of the greatest Raptors players. Acquired in a trade with Houston, Lowry quickly became a fan favorite in Toronto. His tenacity and leadership were instrumental in the Raptors’ championship run in 2019. Lowry’s contributions to the team will not be forgotten, as he played a crucial role in ushering in the greatest era of Raptors basketball.
As we celebrate the Raptors’ 30th season, let’s pay tribute to these four players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. Their impact on the court and in the city of Toronto will always be remembered. Here’s to another 30 years of basketball excellence in the North!
