Toronto Raptors’ Nick Nurse Voices Approval for Early Start of 2021 NBA Season

The Toronto Raptors struck out last season against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. After winning the Championship in 2019 against the Golden State Warriors, led by the stellar Kawhi Leonard. Leonard had led the Raptors to their first title, which was his second, but looks like both without the other, failed to achieve the success they wanted.

As the offseason begins, the start date for season 2020-21 is under review. Ever since the tentative date for its commencement made reached everyone, the reactions against it have been mixed. Some players believe that December 22 is too soon, especially for teams that stayed in the Orlando Bubble longer and need time to recuperate.

In an interview with ESPN, Nick Nurse discussed this controversial topic, along with what the other coaches think about the projected date.

The Toronto Raptors are ready

The Former Coach of The Year’s opinions differs from the popular vote. When asked about whether December 22 is too early, he said, ” I do not. I think we had about four months off already this year. I think we get four and another two, that’s six. That’s a lot of rest for one calendar year.”

Probably talking about his team, the Raptors, he asserted, “We’re ready to go!” However, Nurse also addressed that there is a possibility that the team might move to the U.S. because of the Covid restrictions implemented in Canada.

Nick also revealed what the organization’s players and executives think about these dates. “Well, we think that it’s a realistic possibility and we are trying to make plans if that is the date. If things get pushed back, we can always adjust things. But we are planning on 22nd, the ball going up. So that means training camps will be in early December. So, we are trying to make plans to get going for that.”

Looks like the Raptors want to waste no more time. After coming up short last season, they are ready to bring home another championship. But before that, they have to focus on something else. With three of their players, Fred VanVleet, Serge Ibaka, and Marc Gasol entering unrestricted free agency, what will Nurse and Co. do to keep them?