When RJ Barrett was traded to the Raptors, it marked a heartfelt return to his roots. Born in Toronto and a proud representative of Canada in international basketball, Barrett donning the Raptors jersey feels like a natural fit.
Growing up, Barrett was a Raptors fan, and attending the Raptors’ Fan Day was a nostalgic moment for him. This event, where kids can interact with the team during an open practice, held special significance for Barrett. He even shared his admiration for some lesser-known Raptors from his childhood: Sonny Weems and Amir Johnson.
Barrett's shoutout to Weems and Johnson resonated with fans on social media, who embraced him as a true Raptors supporter. This kind of bond between a player and the fanbase is invaluable.
Weems and Johnson both arrived in Toronto during the 2009-10 season, courtesy of a trade with the Milwaukee Bucks that sent Carlos Delfino and Roko Ukić the other way.
Amir Johnson, a second-round pick in 2005, became a beloved figure in Toronto over his six seasons with the team. Known for his gritty play, Johnson delivered some of his best performances as a Raptor.
In the 2013-14 season, he posted a career-high 10.4 points per game, along with 6.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.1 blocks. That year, he was one of five Raptors averaging double-digit points, complementing the likes of DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry.
In the playoffs, Johnson stepped up as the third-leading scorer, averaging 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 assist in a tough series against the Brooklyn Nets.
Sonny Weems, on the other hand, had a shorter stint with the Raptors. He played two seasons, 2009-10 and 2010-11, finding opportunities in Toronto that were elusive in Denver.
In his second year, Weems averaged a career-high 9.2 points, along with 2.6 rebounds and 1.8 assists. Despite his contributions, the Raptors opted not to pick up his option for the following season.
With the NBA lockout looming, Weems took his talents overseas, thriving in Europe before making a return to the NBA with the Suns and 76ers in the 2015-16 season.
Barrett’s connection to these players and his genuine enthusiasm for the Raptors enrich his narrative as he embarks on this new chapter with the team.