Toronto Raptors 2019 Championship Roster: Where Are They Now?

The Toronto Raptors' 2019 championship run remains one of the most iconic moments in NBA history. It was a magical season, filled with unforgettable plays, dominant performances, and a team that captured the hearts of an entire nation. But what has become of the players who brought the Larry O'Brien trophy to Toronto for the first time? Let's dive in and catch up with the members of that legendary roster.

The Starting Five

The Raptors' starting lineup during the 2019 playoffs was a force to be reckoned with, featuring a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Each player brought a unique skill set to the court, making them a formidable opponent for any team.

Kyle Lowry

Kyle Lowry, the heart and soul of the Raptors, was the undisputed leader of the team. His tenacity, playmaking, and clutch performances were instrumental to their championship success. After nine seasons in Toronto, Lowry joined the Miami Heat in 2021, where he continued to showcase his leadership and contribute to a competitive team. In the 2023-2024 season, Lowry was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, who later bought out his contract, allowing him to sign with his hometown Philadelphia 76ers. Despite moving on from Toronto, Lowry's legacy as a Raptor remains secure, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in franchise history. His impact on the team and the city will never be forgotten, and his jersey will undoubtedly hang in the rafters of the Scotiabank Arena one day.

Lowry's departure from Toronto marked the end of an era, but his contributions to the team will always be cherished. His leadership, toughness, and unwavering commitment to winning helped transform the Raptors into a championship-caliber team. He set a standard of excellence that future generations of Raptors players will strive to emulate. Beyond his on-court achievements, Lowry was also a beloved figure in the Toronto community, known for his philanthropy and his connection with fans. He embraced the city and its people, making Toronto feel like his home. His legacy extends far beyond basketball, and he will always be remembered as a true icon of the Raptors franchise.

Danny Green

A three-and-D specialist, Danny Green provided valuable floor spacing and perimeter defense for the Raptors. His experience and calm demeanor were crucial during the playoff run. Since leaving Toronto, Green has bounced around the league, playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Memphis Grizzlies. He won another championship with the Lakers in 2020, further solidifying his reputation as a valuable role player on contending teams. However, injuries have plagued Green in recent years, limiting his playing time and impact. Despite these setbacks, he remains a respected veteran in the league, known for his professionalism and his ability to contribute to winning basketball. Green's time with the Raptors may have been short, but his contributions to the championship team were significant, and he will always be remembered as a key piece of that historic run.

Green's ability to knock down open shots and defend multiple positions made him an invaluable asset to the Raptors. His experience playing alongside LeBron James in previous years also proved beneficial, as he provided a calming presence and helped the team navigate the pressures of the playoffs. Off the court, Green was known for his community involvement and his passion for helping others. He quickly became a fan favorite in Toronto, and his departure was met with disappointment from many Raptors supporters. Despite his brief tenure with the team, Green left a lasting impact on the organization and the city.

Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard, the Finals MVP, was the centerpiece of the Raptors' championship team. His scoring prowess, defensive dominance, and unwavering focus made him virtually unstoppable. After leading the Raptors to the title, Leonard signed with the Los Angeles Clippers in the summer of 2019. Injuries have been a recurring issue for Leonard in recent years, limiting his availability and preventing him from reaching his full potential. When healthy, he remains one of the top players in the league, capable of carrying a team to championship contention. Leonard's time in Toronto may have been brief, but his impact was undeniable, and he will forever be remembered as the player who brought the Raptors their first NBA championship.

Leonard's arrival in Toronto transformed the Raptors from a good team into a great one. His ability to score in isolation, defend the opposing team's best player, and make clutch plays in pressure situations elevated the team to new heights. He quickly became a fan favorite in Toronto, and his quiet demeanor and relentless work ethic endeared him to fans and teammates alike. Leonard's decision to leave Toronto after one season was met with disappointment from many Raptors supporters, but his legacy as a champion remains intact. He will always be remembered as the player who helped the Raptors achieve their ultimate goal.

Pascal Siakam

Pascal Siakam, the Most Improved Player, blossomed into a star during the 2019 season. His versatility, athleticism, and improved shooting made him a vital part of the Raptors' offense. Siakam remained with the Raptors until January 2024, when he was traded to the Indiana Pacers. He is now looked at as the new veteran of the team, who will take the team to the playoffs.

Siakam's growth and development were remarkable to witness. He transformed himself from a raw, energetic player into a skilled and polished scorer, playmaker, and defender. His ability to guard multiple positions and create mismatches on offense made him a valuable asset to the Raptors. Off the court, Siakam is known for his humility and his commitment to giving back to his community. He has established a foundation to support underprivileged youth in his native Cameroon, and he is actively involved in various charitable initiatives. Siakam's impact extends far beyond basketball, and he is a role model for young people around the world.

Marc Gasol

Marc Gasol, the veteran center, brought his experience, basketball IQ, and passing ability to the Raptors. His presence in the paint and his ability to space the floor were crucial to their success. After a brief stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, Gasol returned to Spain to play for Bàsquet Girona, a team he owns. He retired from professional basketball in 2024, ending an illustrious career that included an NBA championship, multiple All-Star appearances, and a Defensive Player of the Year award. Gasol's time with the Raptors may have been short, but his contributions were significant, and he will always be remembered as a key piece of that championship team.

Gasol's arrival in Toronto provided the Raptors with a much-needed upgrade at the center position. His ability to pass, shoot, and defend made him a perfect fit for the team's offensive and defensive schemes. He quickly established himself as a leader in the locker room, and his experience and wisdom were invaluable to the team's younger players. Off the court, Gasol is known for his intelligence and his passion for social justice. He has been an outspoken advocate for various causes, and he is actively involved in efforts to promote education and equality. Gasol's impact extends far beyond basketball, and he is a role model for athletes around the world.

Key Bench Players

The Raptors' championship team was not just about the starting five; their bench players also played a crucial role in their success. These players provided valuable contributions on both ends of the court, stepping up whenever their number was called.

Fred VanVleet

Fred VanVleet, the undrafted success story, emerged as a key contributor off the bench for the Raptors. His scoring, playmaking, and defensive tenacity earned him the nickname "Steady Freddy." After seven seasons with the Raptors, VanVleet signed with the Houston Rockets in the summer of 2023. In Houston, VanVleet continues to be a starting point guard and a leader for the team.

VanVleet's journey from undrafted free agent to key player on a championship team is an inspiring story. His hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in himself allowed him to overcome the odds and achieve his dreams. He quickly became a fan favorite in Toronto, and his clutch performances in the playoffs solidified his place in Raptors lore. Off the court, VanVleet is known for his intelligence and his business acumen. He has launched his own clothing line and is actively involved in various entrepreneurial ventures. VanVleet's impact extends far beyond basketball, and he is a role model for young people who aspire to achieve success through hard work and determination.

Serge Ibaka

Serge Ibaka, the defensive stalwart, provided rim protection, rebounding, and scoring off the bench for the Raptors. His energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he quickly became a fan favorite. After leaving Toronto, Ibaka played for the Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, and now plays for the Atlanta Hawks. Ibaka's veteran presence and defensive skills continue to be valuable assets to any team he joins.

Ibaka's journey from war-torn Congo to the NBA is an incredible story of perseverance and determination. His ability to overcome adversity and achieve his dreams is an inspiration to people around the world. He quickly became a fan favorite in Toronto, and his signature block celebrations were a highlight of Raptors games. Off the court, Ibaka is known for his fashion sense and his passion for the arts. He has his own clothing line and is actively involved in various creative projects. Ibaka's impact extends far beyond basketball, and he is a role model for young people who aspire to achieve success through hard work and dedication.

Norman Powell

Norman Powell, the explosive scorer, provided instant offense off the bench for the Raptors. His athleticism and scoring ability made him a valuable asset to the team. Powell was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2021, where he continued to showcase his scoring prowess. He was later traded to the Los Angeles Clippers.

Powell's journey from second-round pick to key player in the NBA is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His ability to score in a variety of ways made him a valuable asset to the Raptors. He quickly became a fan favorite in Toronto, and his explosive dunks and clutch performances were a highlight of Raptors games. Off the court, Powell is known for his intelligence and his commitment to education. He earned a degree in communications from UCLA, and he is actively involved in various educational initiatives. Powell's impact extends far beyond basketball, and he is a role model for young people who aspire to achieve success through hard work and dedication.

Other Notable Players

While the players mentioned above played the most significant roles in the Raptors' championship run, several other players also contributed to the team's success.

OG Anunoby

OG Anunoby, the promising young forward, showed flashes of potential during the 2019 season. His defensive ability and developing offensive game made him a valuable role player. Anunoby remained with the Raptors until December 2023, when he was traded to the New York Knicks, hoping to be a 3-and-D player.

Patrick McCaw

Patrick McCaw, the three-time champion, brought his championship experience to the Raptors. He was waived by the team in 2021. Currently, McCaw is not playing in the NBA.

Jodie Meeks

Jodie Meeks, the veteran shooter, provided valuable floor spacing for the Raptors. Meeks is now retired from the NBA.

Coaching Staff

A great team needs a great coach, and the Raptors were fortunate to have Nick Nurse leading the way. His tactical acumen, player development skills, and ability to connect with his players were instrumental to their championship success.

Nick Nurse

Nick Nurse, the mastermind coach, orchestrated the Raptors' championship run with his innovative strategies and his ability to adapt to different opponents. Nurse was fired by the Raptors in 2023 and hired by the Philadelphia 76ers. Nurse is still looking to win his second NBA Championship.

The Toronto Raptors' 2019 championship roster will forever be etched in the memories of basketball fans in Toronto and around the world. The players on that team not only achieved the ultimate goal of winning an NBA championship, but they also brought joy and excitement to an entire nation. While the team has since undergone significant changes, the legacy of the 2019 Raptors will endure for years to come. From Kyle Lowry's leadership to Kawhi Leonard's dominance to Pascal Siakam's emergence as a star, each player on that roster played a vital role in the team's success. As we look back on that magical season, we can't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the players who brought the Larry O'Brien trophy to Toronto for the first time.