Top 10 Players in Toronto Raptors History
The Toronto Raptors have carved out a unique and storied history since their inception in 1995, showcasing a blend of talent, resilience, and passion on the NBA stage. From electrifying dunks to clutch performances, the Raptors have captivated fans with their thrilling brand of basketball. In this article, I delve into the top 10 players who have left an indelible mark on Raptors history. This is according to me, Gus Woltmann, and based on my personal preferences. From franchise icons to championship heroes, these players have defined eras, shattered records, and etched their names in the annals of Toronto sports lore.
Vince Carter
Vince Carter, often referred to as “Half Man, Half Amazing,” left an indelible mark on the Toronto Raptors franchise during his tenure from 1998 to 2004. Acquired in a draft-night trade, Carter quickly became the face of the Raptors and a marquee attraction in the NBA.
Known for his breathtaking athleticism and highlight-reel dunks, Carter captivated audiences with his aerial displays and unmatched creativity on the court. His gravity-defying slams, including the iconic 2000 NBA Slam Dunk Contest performance, solidified his status as one of the most electrifying dunkers in basketball history.
Beyond his aerial acrobatics, Carter was also a prolific scorer and versatile playmaker. He possessed a lethal combination of outside shooting, ball-handling skills, and basketball IQ, making him a threat from anywhere on the court. Carter’s scoring prowess earned him multiple All-Star selections and secured his place among the NBA elite.
Despite his individual success, Carter’s impact on the Raptors extended far beyond statistics. He played a pivotal role in putting Toronto basketball on the map, elevating the team’s profile and attracting a global fanbase. Carter’s popularity transcended borders, leading to increased interest in basketball across Canada and laying the foundation for the Raptors’ future success.
While Carter’s departure from Toronto was met with mixed emotions, his contributions to the franchise are undeniable. His legacy as a Raptors icon remains unparalleled, and he is remembered fondly by fans for his unforgettable performances and enduring impact on the team’s history.
Beyond his time with the Raptors, Carter enjoyed a lengthy and successful NBA career, playing for several teams and earning respect as a veteran leader and mentor to younger players. Throughout his journey, Carter remained a beloved figure in Toronto, receiving standing ovations and heartfelt tributes whenever he returned to face his former team.
In 2020, Carter officially retired from professional basketball, leaving behind a legacy that transcends his on-court achievements. As a trailblazer for Canadian basketball and a symbol of perseverance and longevity, Vince Carter’s influence on the sport will continue to be felt for generations to come.
DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan stands as one of the most beloved and accomplished players in Toronto Raptors history. Drafted by the Raptors in 2009 with the ninth overall pick, DeRozan quickly emerged as a cornerstone of the franchise and a symbol of loyalty and dedication.
During his nine seasons with the Raptors, DeRozan established himself as one of the premier scorers in the NBA, earning four All-Star selections and becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. His smooth mid-range jumper, relentless drives to the basket, and ability to draw fouls made him a potent offensive threat and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Beyond his scoring prowess, DeRozan’s leadership and work ethic endeared him to teammates, coaches, and fans alike. He embodied the grit and determination of the Raptors and served as a vocal leader both on and off the court. DeRozan’s commitment to the team’s success was evident in his willingness to embrace challenges and improve his game year after year.
One of DeRozan’s most memorable moments came during the 2016 playoffs when he led the Raptors to their first-ever Eastern Conference Finals appearance. His clutch performances and unwavering determination propelled the team to new heights and endeared him to Raptors fans forever.
Despite his departure from Toronto in 2018, traded to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Kawhi Leonard, DeRozan’s impact on the Raptors organization remains profound. He left an enduring legacy of excellence, loyalty, and perseverance, inspiring a new generation of players and cementing his place in Raptors lore. Even though he never won NBA Championship with the Raptors, he is still considered by many to be the greatest Raptors player of all-time.
Today, DeMar DeRozan continues to thrive in the NBA, showcasing his scoring prowess and leadership with the Bulls and continuing to make his mark on the league. As he continues his basketball journey, DeRozan’s legacy as a Toronto Raptors legend will always be celebrated and cherished by fans across Canada and beyond.
Kyle Lowry
Kyle Lowry, a tenacious point guard renowned for his leadership and competitive spirit, has left an indelible mark on the Toronto Raptors franchise during his nine-year tenure with the team. Acquired in a trade with the Houston Rockets in 2012, Lowry quickly emerged as a driving force behind the Raptors’ success.
Throughout his time in Toronto, Lowry epitomized the blue-collar mentality of the city, earning the nickname “The Bulldog” for his tenacity and relentless hustle on the court. His ability to impact the game in multiple facets, from scoring and playmaking to defense and rebounding, made him a fan favorite and a linchpin of the Raptors’ roster.
Lowry’s leadership was perhaps his most valuable asset, as he served as the team’s emotional anchor and vocal leader during their historic run to the NBA Championship in 2019. His clutch performances, fiery demeanor, and unselfish play were instrumental in guiding the Raptors to their first-ever NBA title, earning him widespread acclaim and admiration.
Beyond his on-court contributions, Lowry endeared himself to Raptors fans with his dedication to the community and his unwavering commitment to Toronto. His philanthropic efforts, including his work with underprivileged youth and his support for various charitable causes, further solidified his status as a beloved figure in the city.
While Lowry’s departure from Toronto in 2021, signing with the Miami Heat in free agency, marked the end of an era, his impact on the Raptors organization will be felt for years to come. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and loyalty, forever ingrained in the hearts of Raptors fans worldwide. As he continues his basketball journey with the Heat, Kyle Lowry’s contributions to the Toronto Raptors will be celebrated and cherished for generations to come.
Chris Bosh
Chris Bosh, a dynamic forward-center known for his versatility and skill, played a pivotal role in shaping the Toronto Raptors franchise during his seven seasons with the team. Selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, Bosh quickly emerged as a cornerstone of the Raptors’ roster.
Standing 6 feet 11 inches tall with a unique blend of size, agility, and basketball IQ, Bosh posed matchup problems for opponents on both ends of the court. His smooth shooting stroke, deft footwork in the post, and ability to stretch the floor made him a potent offensive threat and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Bosh’s impact extended beyond scoring, as he also excelled as a rebounder, shot-blocker, and facilitator. His versatility allowed him to adapt to different playing styles and complement his teammates, making him a valuable asset for the Raptors.
During his time in Toronto, Bosh earned multiple All-Star selections and solidified his reputation as one of the premier big men in the NBA. His leadership both on and off the court, coupled with his dedication to improving his game, endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
One of Bosh’s most memorable moments came during the 2006–2007 season when he led the Raptors to their first-ever division title and playoff appearance since 2002. His stellar play and leadership were instrumental in the team’s success, igniting excitement and optimism among Raptors fans.
While Bosh’s departure from Toronto in 2010, signing with the Miami Heat in free agency, marked the end of his tenure with the Raptors, his impact on the franchise cannot be understated. He left behind a legacy of excellence, professionalism, and class, forever ingrained in the history of the Toronto Raptors. As he continues his basketball journey, Chris Bosh’s contributions to the Raptors organization will be celebrated and cherished by fans for generations to come.
Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi Leonard’s tenure with the Toronto Raptors may have been brief, but his impact on the franchise was monumental. Acquired in a blockbuster trade in 2018, Leonard wasted no time in making his mark, leading the Raptors to their first NBA Championship in franchise history.
Nicknamed “The Klaw” for his suffocating defense and stoic demeanor, Leonard brought a rare combination of elite scoring ability and lockdown defense to Toronto. His clutch performances in the playoffs, including a series-winning buzzer-beater against the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, will forever be etched in Raptors lore.
Beyond his on-court heroics, Leonard’s calm and composed demeanor served as a steadying presence for the Raptors throughout their championship run. Despite facing pressure and scrutiny, he remained unfazed, leading by example with his work ethic, professionalism, and attention to detail.
While Leonard’s departure from Toronto following their championship season was met with disappointment, Raptors fans will forever be grateful for the memories he provided during his brief but unforgettable tenure. His impact on the franchise transcended his on-court accomplishments, as he instilled a winning culture and championship mindset that continues to resonate with the team.
As Leonard continues his basketball journey with the Los Angeles Clippers, Raptors fans will always hold a special place in their hearts for “The Klaw.” His contributions to the franchise’s first NBA Championship will forever be cherished, and his legacy as a Toronto Raptors legend is firmly secured in the annals of basketball history.
Pascal Siakam
Pascal Siakam’s rise from unheralded prospect to NBA star embodies the essence of perseverance and determination. Selected by the Toronto Raptors with the 27th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, Siakam’s journey to stardom is a testament to his relentless work ethic and unwavering belief in himself.
Affectionately known as “Spicy P” by Raptors fans, Siakam quickly emerged as a key contributor for the team, showcasing his versatility and athleticism on both ends of the court. His unique skill set, characterized by his ability to score from anywhere on the floor and defend multiple positions, made him a valuable asset for the Raptors.
During the Raptors’ historic championship run in 2019, Siakam played a pivotal role in the team’s success, earning recognition as the NBA’s Most Improved Player. His breakout performances in the playoffs, including a 32-point outburst in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors, solidified his status as a rising star in the league.
Beyond his individual accolades, Siakam’s infectious energy and positive attitude endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His humble demeanor and team-first mentality served as a guiding light for the Raptors throughout their championship journey.
Siakam continues to evolve and grow as a player, but nowadays for Indiana Pacers. With his unwavering dedication to improvement and his relentless pursuit of greatness, Pascal Siakam has cemented his place as a cornerstone of the Toronto Raptors franchise and a beloved figure in the city of Toronto.
Damon Stoudamire
Damon Stoudamire, affectionately known as “Mighty Mouse,” made an immediate impact on the Toronto Raptors franchise as the team’s first-ever draft pick in 1995. Selected seventh overall in the NBA Draft, Stoudamire quickly established himself as a dynamic point guard and fan favorite in Toronto.
Stoudamire’s diminutive stature belied his immense talent and competitiveness on the court. Standing at just 5 feet 10 inches tall, he defied the odds to become one of the most electrifying players in Raptors history. His lightning-quick speed, slick ball-handling skills, and fearless drives to the basket made him a nightmare for opposing defenders.
During his rookie season, Stoudamire earned NBA Rookie of the Year honors, averaging 19.0 points, 9.3 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game. His impact was immediate, injecting excitement and optimism into a fledgling Raptors franchise.
Beyond his individual accolades, Stoudamire’s leadership and competitive spirit set the tone for the Raptors’ early years. He served as a mentor to his teammates and embraced the challenge of building a winning culture in Toronto.
While Stoudamire’s time with the Raptors was relatively short-lived, his contributions to the franchise’s early success are undeniable. He laid the foundation for future generations of Raptors players and left an enduring legacy as one of the pioneers of Toronto basketball.
Today, Stoudamire’s impact on the Raptors franchise is remembered fondly by fans, who still cherish the memories of his electrifying performances and his role in shaping the team’s identity. As the Raptors continue to evolve and grow, Stoudamire’s legacy as “Mighty Mouse” will forever be celebrated in Toronto sports history.
Jose Calderon
Jose Calderon, a consummate professional and masterful floor general, left an indelible mark on the Toronto Raptors franchise during his tenure with the team. Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2005, Calderon quickly established himself as one of the premier point guards in the NBA.
Known for his exceptional court vision, pinpoint passing, and deadly accuracy from beyond the arc, Calderon epitomized efficiency and intelligence on the basketball court. His ability to control the tempo of the game, facilitate ball movement, and find open teammates made him a valuable asset for the Raptors.
Calderon’s impact extended beyond his on-court contributions, as he served as a mentor and leader for his teammates both on and off the court. His professionalism, work ethic, and positive attitude set the standard for the Raptors’ locker room culture and earned him the respect of coaches, teammates, and fans alike.
During his time with the Raptors, Calderon etched his name into the franchise record books, becoming the team’s all-time leader in assists and free-throw percentage. His consistent play and unwavering reliability made him a fan favorite and a beloved figure in Toronto.
While Calderon’s tenure with the Raptors eventually came to an end, his contributions to the franchise’s success will forever be remembered. His impact as a leader, playmaker, and ambassador for the game of basketball left an enduring legacy that continues to resonate with Raptors fans to this day. As the Raptors continue to evolve and grow, Calderon’s influence on the franchise’s history remains a cherished part of Toronto sports lore.
Andrea Bargnani
Andrea Bargnani, the first overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft, brought a unique blend of size, skill, and versatility to the Toronto Raptors franchise. Hailing from Italy, Bargnani arrived in Toronto with high expectations and the potential to become a transformative player for the team.
Standing 7 feet tall with a smooth shooting stroke and the ability to stretch the floor, Bargnani was touted as a modern-day big man capable of revolutionizing the game. His perimeter shooting and scoring ability made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, and he quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic offensive players in the NBA.
During his time with the Raptors, Bargnani showcased flashes of brilliance, including a career-high 41-point performance against the New York Knicks in 2010. His scoring prowess and versatility earned him recognition as the NBA’s Most Improved Player in the 2006–2007 season.
Despite his individual success, Bargnani’s tenure with the Raptors was not without its challenges. Injuries and inconsistencies plagued his career, and he faced criticism for his defensive shortcomings and occasional lapses in effort.
While Bargnani’s time in Toronto ultimately did not fulfill the lofty expectations placed upon him, his impact on the franchise cannot be overlooked. He played a significant role in shaping the Raptors’ identity during his tenure and left an indelible mark on the team’s history.
Today, Bargnani’s legacy as the first overall pick and his contributions to the Raptors franchise are remembered fondly by fans. Though his time in Toronto may have been met with ups and downs, Bargnani’s impact on the team’s trajectory and his unique skill set make him a noteworthy figure in Raptors history.
Jonas Valančiūnas
Jonas Valančiūnas, affectionately known as “JV” or the “Lithuanian Tower,” left an indelible mark on the Toronto Raptors franchise during his tenure with the team. Drafted fifth overall in the 2011 NBA Draft, Valančiūnas quickly established himself as one of the premier big men in the league.
Standing 7 feet tall with a sturdy frame and impressive athleticism, Valančiūnas was a dominant force in the paint on both ends of the court. His imposing presence, shot-blocking ability, and relentless rebounding made him a formidable interior defender and a force to be reckoned with in the low post.
Offensively, Valančiūnas showcased soft hands and a polished array of post moves, making him a reliable scoring option for the Raptors. His ability to finish around the rim, grab offensive rebounds, and convert second-chance opportunities helped the team immensely on the offensive end.
During his time in Toronto, Valančiūnas played a key role in the Raptors’ success, including multiple playoff runs and division titles. His tenacity, work ethic, and team-first mentality endeared him to fans and teammates alike, making him a beloved figure in Toronto.
One of Valančiūnas’ most memorable moments came during the Raptors’ historic playoff run in 2016 when he recorded a career-high 32 points and 11 rebounds in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers. His dominant performance showcased his ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage.
While Valančiūnas eventually moved on from the Raptors in a trade to the Memphis Grizzlies, his impact on the franchise will forever be remembered. His contributions to the team’s success and his unwavering dedication to the Raptors’ cause make him a cherished figure in Toronto sports history. As the Raptors continue to evolve and grow, Valančiūnas’ legacy as the “Lithuanian Tower” will always hold a special place in the hearts of Raptors fans.
Conclusion
From the early years of Damon Stoudamire and Jose Calderon to the recent successes of Pascal Siakam and Jonas Valančiūnas, each player has played a vital role in shaping the Raptors’ journey from expansion team to NBA champions. Their legacies will forever be cherished by Raptors fans, who have been fortunate to witness their greatness and celebrate their achievements.
As the Raptors continue to evolve and pursue excellence in the NBA, it’s important to recognize and honor the contributions of these legendary players who have helped elevate the franchise to new heights. Their impact will be felt for generations to come, serving as a source of inspiration and pride for Raptors fans worldwide. As we look ahead to the future, we do so with gratitude for the past and excitement for what lies ahead in the storied history of the Toronto Raptors.
