Areas of Strength:
Youth and athleticism. The Raptors just posted their worst record in 13 years, but they've arguably got more of a plan now than they've had since they last made the playoffs four years ago. They've got a young core that gives the franchise some hope for the future.

Needs Work:
Defense and experience. That youthful core needs a leader to keep them focused for 82 games. Defensively, the Raptors need a complete overhaul.

Two Stats That Matter:
2 -- The Raptors are the first team to rank last in the league defensively in two consecutive seasons since the Clippers did it in 1998-99 and 1999-00.

112.5 -- Raptors' opponents scored 112.5 points per 100 possessions when Andrea Bargnani was on the floor. That was the worst on-court defensive rating among 299 players who logged at least 750 minutes.

The Way To Go:
Though they've got a lot of young talent, the Raptors don't have a singular player to build around. So their choice at No. 5 should be the best player available, which may be a European that doesn't necessarily play for them next season. No matter what they do with the pick, they'll need to improve defensively via free agency, trade (they still have $9 million left on their Chris Bosh trade exception), or a coaching change.

2010-11 Team Stats:
Offensive: 103.3 (20th)
Defensive: 110.0 (30th)

Players Under Contract:
G: Jerryd Bayless
G: DeMar DeRozan
G: Jose Calderon
G: Leandro Barbosa (Player Option)
F: Ed Davis
F: Amir Johnson
F: James Johnson
F: Linas Kleiza
C: Andrea Bargnani
C: Solomon Alabi

Free agents:
G/F: Sonny Weems (Restricted)
F: Joey Dorsey (Restricted)
F: Reggie Evans
F: Julian Wright (Restricted)
C: Alexis Ajinca

-- John Schuhmann