Written By
The Toronto Raptors have announced that they will not be renewing the contract of head coach Nick Nurse following a disappointing season that saw the team miss the playoffs for the second time in three years.
Nurse, who was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2019 and led the Raptors to their first-ever championship that same year, was at the helm for four seasons. During his tenure, he compiled a record of 188-102 in the regular season and 23-19 in the playoffs.
Despite this impressive resume, the Raptors struggled to find their footing this past season. They finished with a record of 32-40, placing them 12th in the Eastern Conference and outside of the playoff picture. The team was plagued by injuries and COVID-19 related absences, but even when healthy, they failed to live up to expectations.
The decision to part ways with Nurse was not an easy one for the Raptors organization. In a statement, team president Masai Ujiri praised Nurse for his contributions to the team’s success over the past four years.
“Nick has been an incredible coach and an even better leader for our team,” Ujiri said. “His work ethic, basketball IQ, and ability to connect with players are second to none. We are grateful for everything he has done for our organization and wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors.”
Despite the praise, the decision to let Nurse go was ultimately made with the hope of turning the team’s fortunes around. The Raptors have a strong foundation in place, with players like Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, and OG Anunoby forming a talented young core. However, they will need a new coach to guide them back to the playoffs and, ultimately, to another championship.
The search for Nurse’s replacement is already underway, and the Raptors have several strong candidates to consider. According to reports, the team is looking for a coach who can bring a fresh perspective and help the team develop its young talent.
One potential candidate is Becky Hammon, an assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs who is widely regarded as a rising star in the coaching ranks. Hammon has already interviewed for head coaching positions with other NBA teams and could become the first woman to hold a head coaching position in the league if she were to land the job with the Raptors.
Other potential candidates include former NBA head coaches like Mike D’Antoni and Terry Stotts, as well as up-and-coming assistants like Ime Udoka (Brooklyn Nets) and Charles Lee (Milwaukee Bucks).
Whoever the Raptors ultimately choose to lead their team, they will be tasked with the difficult job of turning the franchise’s fortunes around. After a disappointing season, the Raptors are in need of a fresh start and a new direction, and the team’s next coach will play a crucial role in shaping its future.
