5 reasons Serge Ibaka is a perfect fit for the Raptors

Jan 4, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Serge Ibaka (7) against the Atlanta Hawks during the second half at Amway Center. Atlanta Hawks defeated the Orlando Magic 111-92. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 4, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Serge Ibaka (7) against the Atlanta Hawks during the second half at Amway Center. Atlanta Hawks defeated the Orlando Magic 111-92. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
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Serge Ibaka and the Toronto Raptors are going to get along famously.

Serge Ibaka is going from Death Valley to the Canadian Rockies.

That is the best geographic metaphor to frame Ibaka’s move from the slumping Orlando Magic to the Toronto Raptors.

Although he was putting up decent numbers with the Magic, Ibaka wasn’t nearly enough to transform a team that appears to be stuck in neutral. The Magic’s front office realized this, and they did the smart thing by shipping Ibaka north of the border to a Raptors team that has big aspirations, but have become stalled with the roster they have.

Ibaka-to-Toronto is just what the doctor ordered for a Raptors team that is quickly fading from view as Eastern Conference contenders, and here five reasons why the marriage between the Raptors and Ibaka will be one of harmony and success.

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