Raptors President Masai Ujiri‘s departure was announced by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment early today. Fans and even some NBA executives are shocked by the abrupt decision.
When Ujiri first joined the Raptors in 2013, he was appointed general manager and executive vice president. He led the squad to consistent postseason success by spearheading their “We The North” campaign. When the Raptors won the NBA championship in 2019, Ujiri was able to experience the pinnacle of basketball immortality.
Regretfully, throughout the last few seasons, the Raptors have not been a capable club. However, it is asserted that the ownership’s rationale for this choice does not primarily stem from their lack of success.
It appeared like Ujiri would manage a single team for the remainder of his career. Danny Green, a former guard for the Raptors, definitely thought so. Green said:
“I was a little shocked by it because I thought he might have been one of the guys to make a run at one of the big stars this upcoming free agency,”
Making moves that change the ceiling throughout the offseason is nothing new to Ujiri. Green was involved in the trade that brought Kawhi Leonard to Toronto and ultimately resulted in an NBA title. Despite his brief tenure with the Raptors, Green was able to observe Ujiri’s executive abilities.
