Toronto Raptors: 3 players the Raptors need to keep for the 19-20 season

The Toronto Raptors will be looking to defend their title during the upcoming season
The Toronto Raptors will be looking to defend their title during the upcoming season

#1 Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard was the driving force behind Toronto's title-winning season
Kawhi Leonard was the driving force behind Toronto's title-winning season

Toronto's championship-winning season was built on the collective efforts of a well-fused roster, but there is no denying that Kawhi Leonard was the star of the show. After slowly regaining his form and fitness during the regular season, the 27-year-old enjoyed a historic postseason, while also putting forth his claim as the NBA's best player.

Over 24 playoff games, Leonard averaged 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, and Leonard's efforts resulted in a second Finals MVP title. Memorable moments included his Game 7 buzzer-beater against the Philadelphia 76ers and a 36 points/12 rebounds performance against the Warriors in Game 4 of the NBA Finals.

Toronto has plenty of other talent on its roster, but signing Leonard to a new deal would secure their status as the front-runners for the 2020 title. Without Leonard, the Raptors are unlikely to make the East Finals. Ultimately, Leonard's decision will change the course of the franchise, and the Raptors must continue to do everything in their power to secure the superstar.

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