It can be argued that the missing piece of Toronto’s puzzle was Marc Gasol, a three-time All-Star with Memphis, whose veteran presence the Raptors gave up Jonas Valincuinas for.  It was a heavy cost, but it worked out.

Gasol was not as productive as J.V. in terms of stats, but he was a proven veteran who helped to alter the team chemistry.  The Spaniard was fantastic for Toronto after the trade, and he helped the Raptors win the 2019 NBA Championship.

Gasol played one more year with Toronto, providing defense and leadership before he traveled back west to join the Lakers, his older brother's former team.