Are the Raptors Strong Enough?

With the NBA pre-season coming to an end, speculation has started to surround the Raptors. The last few seasons have been a dream to say the least for Raptors fans. Under Bryan Colangelo the Raptors have gone from an under .500 team, to a strong playoff team. However, recent setbacks have caused the general public to worry. Are the Raptors destined to remain a 1st round playoff loss?

Here's the good. This off-season the Raptors have got rid of the distracting, turnover-prone T.J Ford. He was a good player, but a point-guard controversy is not something the Raptors were willing to undertake. They also made a huge off-season signing, picking up Jermaine O'Neal for some much needed rebound support for star Chris Bosh. O'Neal was received from the Pacers in exchange for Ford, and fan favourite Nesterovic. O'Neal is also expected to bring some defence for the Raptors to support their high scoring offence. This cleared the floor for Jose Calderone, who was signed to a long-term deal as the Raptors starting point guard. He had recently voiced his displeasure regarding wanting to be a starter, and the Raptors thankfully delivered.

The bad. The Raptors, once known as the team with the best depth in the NBA has somewhat dwindled down. Only time will tell if they will be able to fight through it. Although O'Neal is a strong NBA veteran, recent injury problems have prevented him from playing a full, healthy season. Last season a knee injury held him to only 42 games last season.

The bottom line is the Raptors HAVE to keep O'Neal healthy if they hope to make it deep into the playoffs. Without him, the Raptors will likely finish 15 games above .500, but lose in the first round of the playoffs because of their lack of playoff experience.  This season is one filled with high expectations and all we can do is watch to see how the division standings will play out.