Toronto Raptors clean out their lockers

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The Toronto Raptors cleaned out their lockers much earlier than many experts and fans expected. After being swept in the first round of the playoffs, players and coaches looked back on the record-setting season and how it all went sideways in the playoffs.

The end of season press conference is like being called to the principal’s office. No one wants to be there to sit down and try to explain what went wrong. That’s where the Toronto Raptors found themselves after being swept by the Washington Wizards on Sunday.

On paper, the Toronto Raptors improved from last year. However, after reaching a franchise best 36-wins before the all-star break, something happened. “We took our foot off the gas pedal a bit defensively.” Says Raptors head coach Dwane Casey. That led to the Raptors stumbling into the playoffs, and being totally dominated by a team that apparently had ‘it,’ something the raps couldn’t help but admire.

Last night’s series loss was the 6th first round exit in the raptors 7 playoff appearances. Changes are imminent this offseason but according to some players, blowing up the entire roster isn’t going to solve their problems. ” It’s like a rubix cube, you just need to find the right side to get things moving and I’m confident that they’ll figure it out.” Raptors guard Demar Derozan.

However, a non-endorsement endorsement by all-star Kyle Lowry didn’t help speculation about coach Casey’s job security. “I respect Casey as a man, he’s a hell of a guy and at the end of the day it’s not my choice, it’s not my decision.”

Regardless, all decisions are now up to general manager Masai Ujiri, who’s biggest offseason awaits him