While the Raptors ponder whether they're built to win now — or at least advance in the NBA playoffs — other teams are looking longingly at their roster after this season.
DeMar DeRozan is almost sure to decline his option and hit free agency in the summer, and, according to ESPN.com, the Lakers are prepared to offer the Compton native a max contract starting at $25 million per season.
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In fact, there are several teams equally interested in DeRozan, who is averaging 22.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.1 assists as "co-point guard" with Kyle Lowry.
That's where this postseason comes into play. If Toronto (24-15) loses early in the playoffs, it faces a decision about whether this coach and this core is good enough to compete with the Eastern Conference elite.
Remember, coach Dwayne Casey entered the season on a very hot seat after last postseason's sweep at the hands of the Wizards, and if the Raptors decide that, yes, this team as constructed — and it is improved this season — can compete with the Cavaliers, then they'll have to spend big to keep DeRozan, 26.
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DeRozan on a max deal would send the Raptors' payroll rocketing past next season's salary cap and put some $105 million on the books for 2017-2018, when the league and players' union project the cap will be around $108 million, according to ESPN.com.
That could hinder the Raptors' roster flexibility in the coming years.
