Goran Dragic’s story in Canada begins on the rebound after falling to the Raptors as a result of the sign-and-trade by Kyle Lowry. Immediately after the move, the displeasure of the player, the consequent apologies and the manifest intention of the franchise to retain the Slovenian. Despite the latter, over the weeks they have discovered Dragic’s situation in Toronto as transitory, because according to sources close to the franchise, the final intention is to transfer him.
The TSN, a Canadian sports media conglomerate, assures that what Ujiri intends is to hasten the closing of the transfer market to obtain a greater loot than the departure of the player would bring him right now. If this is really the plan, the play has been perfect for them, as the player has finally willingly accepted his role as a mentor to young people while contributing everything possible on the court. “I will do everything in my power to be part of this team and help young people to grow” were his words during the media day.
It is true that, after starring in an excellent playoffs in 2020, Dragic’s performance has dropped dramatically over the past season. His physical problems and general downturn have been one of the stumbling blocks the Heat faced in a disappointing season. However, his 13.4 points, 4.4 assists per night and his winning gene may help cushion the first few months the Raptors will face without Lowry, the most important player in their history. Come March, we will see if the supposed management plans remain intact.
(Cover photo by Mike Ehrmann / Getty Images)
