Hope is the Key Word for the Toronto Raptors in 2008-09

Now, to coaching.  Love him or hate him, Sam's the man next year.  I still think the jury's out on him. 

This will be a defining year for Sam.  One year his team was the Atlantic Division Champs, the next year they had to fight their way to the .500 mark.  It's Sam's time to bring this team to another level. 

As a devout Raps fan, I try to stay away from "he's not an X's and O's guy," or "Sam doesn't play this player enough," or "Sam plays this crappy player too often".  The fact is, he has brought us an Atlantic Division banner in the past.

But the Raps must get out of the first round of the playoffs to ensure Sam still has a job at the end of the season.  This was the goal last year, and will most certainly be this year's realistic goal as well. 

In a perfect world, the Raps would win a championship within three years.  Bosh is entering his prime.  If the Raps continue with their teasing mediocrity in the playoffs, I don't expect CB4 to re-sign after his contract expires. 

So my friends, that is why this year is a hell of an important year for the Raps.  I would hate to see the dark years creep up on Raptor land again.

In the words of Chuck, "Always a pleasure!"

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?