The Departure of Masai Ujiri
The Toronto Raptors have officially finalized their separation from longtime executive Masai Ujiri, signaling a significant shift in the franchise as they leave behind the era that brought them unparalleled success in their history. While opinions vary on the timing of Ujiri’s departure, his influence on transforming the team into an NBA champion with strategic trades and persistent talent acquisition cannot be understated.
Recent Struggles and Transition
After reaching the pinnacle of the sport in 2019, the franchise has struggled significantly, reflected in their disappointing win percentage ranked 20th in the NBA since then. The Raptors missed the playoffs four times in recent seasons and have seen the exit of key players, including stars like Kawhi Leonard, Kyle Lowry, and Pascal Siakam, as well as important role players such as Serge Ibaka and O.G. Anunoby.
In the past three seasons, the Raptors have not surpassed 41 wins, transitioning from their championship-caliber roster to a new, younger group led by 23-year-old Scottie Barnes and 25-year-old RJ Barrett, among others. As a new core emerges, including 27-year-old Brandon Ingram—who was acquired at the trade deadline but has yet to don a Raptors uniform—the team attempts to establish its new identity.
Leadership Changes and Challenges
Under Ujiri’s guidance, the Raptors experienced leadership changes, with coaches such as Dwane Casey, Nick Nurse, and currently Darko Rajaković. The team faced a rocky start under Rajaković, missing the playoffs in his first two seasons; however, they showed resilience, posting a 13-14 record after last season’s All-Star break despite injuries affecting their lineup. Ujiri’s exit comes after a prolonged period of uncertainty regarding his future with the organization, as he navigated ups and downs throughout his impressive 12-year tenure.
Ujiri’s Impact on the Raptors
To comprehend the magnitude of Ujiri’s impact, let’s revisit his timeline within the Raptors organization, which reflects a series of decisive moves that shaped the franchise:
- 2003: Ujiri began as an international scout for the Denver Nuggets after a prior stint with the Orlando Magic.
- 2007: He joined the Raptors under Bryan Colangelo as the director of international scouting, later moving up to assistant general manager by 2008.
- 2010: After a brief return to the Nuggets, where he became the first African general manager in major U.S. sports, Ujiri led the team to a 50-32 record in his inaugural full season.
- 2013: He won the NBA’s Executive of the Year award and returned to the Raptors as VP and GM, solidifying his strong reputation.
- 2015-2019: Ujiri orchestrated key trades, including the acquisition of Kawhi Leonard, and crafted a championship-winning roster, culminating in the franchise’s first NBA title in 2019.
- Post-Championship Era: After losing Leonard to free agency, Ujiri’s challenge intensified as the Raptors struggled with performance and injuries, leading to a disappointing season record of 27-45 in 2021 and further changes within the organization.
The legacy Ujiri leaves behind is profound; during his leadership, the Raptors achieved the fifth-best winning percentage in the league, clinching eight playoff berths compared to only five in the previous 18 seasons before his tenure. As the Raptors navigate this new chapter, the foundations Ujiri laid will resonate within the organization for years to come.
