Matthew Emmons-USA Today Sports
The Toronto Raptors organization was founded in 1995 and since then the franchise has qualified for just five postseason appearances. In that span, the Raptors have won just ONE playoff series.
It’s not exactly a tradition-rich franchise — but could it be?
The rumors involving the Raptors and a potential partnership with Phil Jackson are beginning to heat up. Jackson has won 11 NBA championships as a head coach, but Toronto isn’t pursuing the Hall of Famer to roam the sidelines — but instead for their front office. The Raptors are pursuing Jackson as the team’s president and are hoping he could be the man to bring about a plan and flare north of the border.
Now of course, initial reaction is this — why would Jackson even bother going to Toronto when he could potentially get another job, with a brighter future? Remember, the Raptors have won only one playoff series in their history. Well, Jackson has a longstanding relationship with Tim Leiweke however, the CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment which oversees the Raptors’ organization.
Sure, one friendship might not be enough to sway Jackson, but Toronto needs to act now. Of course there are more appealing situations for Jackson — not to mention there’s the possibility that he could simply want to remain in the United States. However, this could be an ideal fit. Jackson could be the “North of the Border” version of Pat Riley.
Toronto needs a spark and I’m not talking about on the court — that much should speak for itself. If the Raptors want Jackson, they need to persuade him now, before any others organizations become legitimate options.
Get to work, Toronto.
Follow Paul Seaver on Twitter: @PaulSeaverRS
