The Raptors have climbed their way up the ranks of Toronto’s most valuable sports teams.
On Tuesday, The Star’s Josh Rubin reported the Raptors are now worth more than both the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Blue Jays. Rubin noted that the team’s first championship run has played a role, but their U.S. national TV deal, along with their five division titles in six seasons were key. The Raps lead the bunch valued at $1.8 billion, followed by the Jays at $1.5 billion. The Leafs sit third in the group with a valuation of $1.45 billion.
Per Forbes, the Raptors rank fifth in the biggest value gainers over the past five years at 222%. The Warriors rank first at 367%, followed by the Clippers (282%), 76ers (252%) and Bucks (233%). To give you some perspective, the Leafs are the second most expensive NHL franchise behind the New York Rangers at $1.55 billion. The Knicks lead the NBA as its most expensive franchise at $4 billion.
It’s safe to say that the Kawhi Leonard trade has literally paid wonders for general manager Masai Ujiri and the Raptors. If they can pull it off against Golden State, you can probably expect the number to elevate next season.
(H/T The Star)
