In the comedy business, you only roast the ones you really love.  In the NBA you only roast the ones you despise.

Toronto Raptor fans have grown to loathe many superstars that come to town, but they seem to save the real venom for former Raptors.  Many hearts have been broken in the past by players that captivated spectators with their flashy and athletic abilities.  Damon Stoudamire, the team’s first overall selection in 1995, excelled in the open floor with his quickness.  Tracy McGrady, the high school star who made the leap to the NBA, dazzled everyone with his lanky athleticism.  And then there was Vince Carter.  The man who single handily put the Toronto Raptors franchise on the NBA map.  One thing they all have in common, is they all came, seduced their fans, and left in the middle of the night without a note or phone call.

There's an eerie feeling around these parts, almost like déjà vu.  Finally able to rid themselves of the sting left by the departure of Carter in 2004, fans have attached their optimism to Chris Bosh.  However, the same body language, the same runabout answers to media questions, and the same losing team that plagued that 2003-2004 squad led by Carter is back.  With Bosh’s impending free agency in two seasons it begs the question, is Bosh the next franchise player to bolt?

If you ask ESPN analyst, Stephen A. Smith, there’s no doubt about it.

“He has no desire to remain in Toronto.  My sources tell me Chris Bosh wants out of Toronto,” said Smith.  “They’ve also informed me Bosh has quietly made the Raptors aware of this.”

This is the second public proclamation that Bosh plans to leave Toronto once his contract expires.  Just a few weeks before Smith’s comments, former Raptor Jalen Rose, also said that Bosh will not re-sign with the team.   Both Bosh and general manager Bryan Colangelo have denied these rumours.

The reasons for wanting to leave varied with each star player.  Whether it was because of the weather, second fiddle status or losing culture, the excuses are weaker than the Raptors interior defence.  The decision belongs to Bosh and Bosh alone.  If he chooses to stay, it will show a tremendous amount of confidence in the Raptors organization to turn this sinking ship into a legitimate contender.  If he opts to leave, he will join the list of disgruntled franchise players who left in their prime

In 1997, Damon Stoudamire requested a trade, and received it.

In 2001, Tracy McGrady left Toronto as a free agent.

In 2004, Vince Carter requested a trade, and received it.

In 2010, Chris Bosh becomes a free agent. 

Raptor fans are hoping this isn’t a pattern.  But if it just so happens that Bosh signs with another team, at least Vince Carter will be allowed to share the boos once reserved for his return twice a season.

If you'd like more insight on the NBA, check out the Jumpball podcast at www.sportsfix.ca

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