Toronto Raptors: 4 takeaways from Masai Ujiri’s conference call

3) Nick Nurse’s future in Toronto

Even before COVID19 came onto the scene, long-term stability for the Toronto Raptors was a major question mark. More specifically, in relation to Nick Nurse.

Nurse is in the second season of his three-year contract. By coincidence, both his and Ujiri’s current deals are set to expire after the 2020-21 season.

Everyone is already well aware of how revered Ujiri is around the NBA, with the New York Knicks just the latest franchise interested in him before they went in another direction. He is a hot commodity.

In terms of Nurse, while he doesn’t have the same reputation as his president, it is undoubtedly growing. As if winning the NBA championship last season wasn’t enough, he has made people sit up and take notice during 2019-20, with him arguably doing an even better coaching job.

As frustrating as it has been to deal with the constant flow of injuries – as soon as one key player returns, another seems to go down – while also not having Kawhi Leonard to rely on, Nurse has excelled. Like Urjiri, he will be in high demand if the Raptors don’t sign him to an extension soon.

Regardless, Ujiri admitted re-signing Nurse is not exactly at the forefront of his thoughts right now. As per NBA.com, he said:

"“No, to be fair, It’s not where our minds are at right now. This is a crucial time for the world. Those things will come. “It’s fine, though, it’s honestly like the last thing on my mind. I miss the game, man. I miss basketball. I’m concerned for my team, my family, for the world, I’m concerned about this pandemic and how we beat it. We have to win this one. In the business of basketball, (contract extensions) are the last (concern).”"

For any Raptors worried about this response, don’t be; Ujiri just has his priorities right. He will make sure he gives the Nurse contract situation the attention it deserves when needed.