Pre-Season NBA Power Rankings

(56-26). Previous: . Toronto Raptors. 5. team. 81. <p>The Toronto Raptors are a solid defensive team and they have done everything required to keep the team in the hunt for the NBA playoffs this season.  The team had to retain DeMar DeRozen, replace Bismack Biyombo, and add depth to the roster.</p> <p>The Raptors did retain DeRozen, drafted Jakob Poeltl to serve as reserve center, and signed former Celtic Jared Sullinger to push and possibly earn the start from power forward Patrick Patterson.</p> <p>It’s not much, but for a 56-26 team, sometimes less is more.</p> <p>I’m concerned about the strength of this team if any of the starters is injured this season.  But if the starting lineup stays healthy, they should surpass the Boston Celtics once more.</p> <p><strong>Key Losses:</strong> Luis Scola, Bismack Biyombo<br /> <strong>Key Gains:</strong>  Jakob Poeltl, Jared Sullinger<br /> <strong>Key Statistic</strong>: Shooting accuracy<br /> <strong>NBA Power Rankings:</strong> 5th</p>