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Podcast: Toronto Raptors dismiss Casey, Maple Leafs promote Dubas

By David Morassutti

CLEVELAND, OH - MAY 05: Head coach Dwane Casey of the Toronto Raptors reacts while playing the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2018 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena on May 5, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - MAY 05: Head coach Dwane Casey of the Toronto Raptors reacts while playing the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2018 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena on May 5, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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Both the Toronto Raptors and Toronto Maple Leafs made headlines. David Morassutti and Austin Owens discuss what their decisions will mean going forward.

It was an eventful day on Friday, as the Toronto Raptors turned the page on Dwane Casey and the Toronto Maple Leafs ushered in the Kyle Dubas era. In the latest episode of the Tip of the Tower Podcast, David Morassutti and Austin Owens break down the decisions made by both clubs, along with how they should proceed going forward.

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(0:00-21:18) They start off by discussing the decision made by Masai Ujiri to cut ties with Casey. While it was not surprising, nobody could have predicted the decision to come as quick as it did.

Austin goes over the improvements the Raptors made under Casey especially during the regular season, but the lack of playoff success ultimately determined his fate. The way DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry performed certainly played a factor, as well as their inability to overcome the dominance of LeBron James.

The way Ujiri got emotional during the press conference shows how difficult the decision was, and David looks at how the pressure is going to continue to build now that he has fired the head coach.

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(21:18-39:40) David interrupts Austin as Luke Maile hit a home run off Chris Sale, which caught him off guard. As they get back to talking about the Raptors, David and Austin debate whether Ujiri will consider moving a significant part of the roster.

They also wonder if Norman Powell can bounce back, and how the emergence of OG Anunoby should provide some optimism going forward. This will be a critical time for the management group, after some questionable decisions.

(39:40-55:00) There was a report that Lou Lamoriello could pursue a job with the New York Islanders. David and Austin look back on what he was able to accomplish with the Leafs in a short period of time, to help set the table for Dubas.

What should Leafs Nation expect with Dubas in charge? David and Austin look at how he’s already had an impact on the roster. They bring up what the relationship will look like with Dubas in charge and why Brendan Shanahan will likely play a role in keeping things in line.

(55:00) David discusses some notable traits Dubas will bring from his time in the AHL and why it’s a different, but necessary approach for the Leafs.

While the contracts will be a point of emphasis, the blueline remains the biggest challenge for Dubas. Does he look to the Toronto Marlies for help? Will he make a big trade or dip into free agency? David and Austin discuss the possibilities and some current players who need to turn things around this season.

Would the Leafs consider moving William Nylander? David and Austin discuss the obvious issue with that, especially with how other teams have regretted similar deals. They both also provide some alternative options that would not be as risky.

Next: 5 biggest surprises so far this season for the Jays

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