Chris Bosh to Miami: A New Era Has Started in Raptors Basketball

Today, Chris Bosh announced that he is going to sign with the Miami Heat.

As a Raptors fan, I was heartbroken and sad, but I wasn't surprised. I tried to keep the thought in my heart that Bosh was staying, but now, it's time to face the music.

I would like to thank Bosh for everything he's done for the franchise, but at the same time, I am disappointed in the way he's acted this offseason.

But it's done, Bosh is gone, and the Raptors have to move on. It appears as though he will walk without a sign-and-trade and won't get his six-year contract.

So now, it's time for Chris Bosh to pass on the torch to the next franchise player. And who will that be?

It's time to live up to that number one pick. It's Andrea Bargnani. 

Bargnani was the Raptors second-scoring option last year, and with Bosh gone, he will be the first. Look for Bargnani to take more shot attempts and be a better leader.

Many will hate, say Bargnani is soft and this and that, but like it or not, he's the new face of the franchise.

Hedo Turkoglu will also be a big part of the offense, provided he doesn't get traded.

Another big part of Raptors basketball will be the "Young Gunz," which consist of DeMar DeRozan, Sonny Weems, and Amir Johnson.

The Raptors don't have too much talent on their roster, but they are young and ready to play.

So, are the Raptors rebuilding or contending?

With Bosh gone, many are saying this team is done. But that's not true! Bosh isn't the whole team, and by drafting Ed Davis and Solomon Alabi, the Raptors are actually looking good in the frontcourt.

DeMar DeRozan will have to take on a bigger leadership role, along with Jarrett Jack and Jose Calderon.

The Raptors have enough pieces to contend, it's just a matter if Bryan Colangelo will use the remaining cap and mid-level exception correctly.

Are the playoffs still a possibility? Yes, I honestly think that if the Raptors can play to their potential, they can grab a playoff spot. 

This should be an interesting year in Raptors basketball.