The changes are significant: Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka, integral parts of a championship team, are out; in come the likes of Aron Baynes and DeAndre’ Bembry and a promising rookie in Malachi Flynn.
But the core of the Raptors remains unchanged, with Kyle Lowry, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam and Norm Powell expected to play huge roles in an NBA season that begins Wednesday night.
A breakdown of the 17-man roster:
- Kyle Lowry: The 34-year-old point guard remains the team’s leader and its soul, and he will have to carry a heavy load again.