(Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
The Toronto Raptors were the last team in the search for a new head coach this offseason.
After five seasons playing under Nick Nurse and winning the 2019 NBA championship in the process, the Raptors decided to part ways with him.
Nurse found a new team and signed with the Philadelphia 76ers while the Raptors were still looking for the right candidate.
On Saturday, they finally made a decision and picked Memphis Grizzlies assistant coach Darko Rajakovic as their new head coach.
ESPN Sources: The Toronto Raptors are finalizing a deal to hire Memphis Grizzlies assistant Darko Rajakovic as the franchise’s next coach. pic.twitter.com/AEPu64p2F2
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 10, 2023
This decision drew different reactions, with some congratulating the coach for landing this job and others viewing the hire as questionable.
Fantastic coach, Toronto got a gem they don’t even realize it yet
— Clob (@Colby_raz) June 10, 2023
I can tell just by looking at him they are gonna be in the lottery
— Marlo Stanfield (@BooRxdley) June 10, 2023
Raptors got a good one
— Sad Grizz (@iLoveJmorant) June 10, 2023
Rebuild mode activated
— renji (@2renji) June 10, 2023
I’m sad but also so happy for him. But so sad lol
— KJ (@kelwright) June 10, 2023
A native of Serbia, Rajakovic has had experience developing players in the G League with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Phoenix Suns.
Until yesterday, he was Taylor Jenkins’ top assistant coach, and now will take his first head coaching job in the league.
This can be a great addition or a total disaster for the Raptors.
They have some players that will probably leave the team in the summer, starting from Fred VanVleet.
After winning the 2019 championship, they struggled to return to the Finals and have been a mid-level team since.
They have exciting young players on the roster, especially Scottie Barnes.
With the right direction, the Raptors could thrive again.
They have one of the best general managers in the league, and if they all work together, they could be back in contention soon.
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