Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri made a surprising admission during a press conference on Monday, expressing shame and taking accountability for the team's disastrous 2023-24 season. Despite facing numerous challenges, including injuries, controversies, and personal tragedies, Ujiri took responsibility for the team's failure in foreseeing the contracts ending for key players.

Ujiri acknowledged that the team's five-year player development strategy had fallen short and ultimately fell under his purview. He recognized that his trademark patience had turned into stubbornness over the past two years, resulting in the Raptors paying the price for underperforming. Ujiri admitted that the team was no longer the same championship-winning organization of 2019, and he had been slow to publicly acknowledge it until now.

The Raptors found some positive momentum during the second day of the draft, where they secured significant attention and made a trade for potential backup point guard Davion Mitchell, along with two second-round picks and Sasha Vezenkov. Ujiri admitted that the trade was more a result of financial circumstances than strategic maneuvering but highlighted the opportunity for the team to take a step forward.

Ujiri's focus now rests on two key players: Immanuel Quickley and Scottie Barnes. The Raptors have invested a substantial $400 million in the pair, banking on their future potential rather than their past production. While Ujiri refrained from declaring a concrete timeline for contention, he emphasized the importance of Barnes and Quickley setting the tone and embracing accountability.

Both Barnes and Quickley expressed their determination to restore the Raptors' winning culture as soon as possible. Although the team's reliance on young players and the lack of incoming lottery picks may limit immediate improvement, Ujiri emphasized the need for foundational players who aspire to win and possess room for growth.

With Barnes signed for six years and Quickley for five, their performances during these contracts will significantly shape their NBA legacies. Meanwhile, Ujiri's legacy as the executive who brought a title to Toronto is secured. However, the upcoming changes in the ownership structure of the Raptors, potentially affecting Ujiri's position, may make these contracts his final major moves.

Ujiri concluded the press conference by promising a return to winning ways for the Raptors. He acknowledged that the team and its fans deserved better and stressed the importance of passion and energy in the league. Setting the stage for Barnes and Quickley to provide leadership, he aimed to reclaim the team's lustre and restore the weight behind his words.

As the Raptors embark on a rebuilding phase, Ujiri's focus on accountability, growth, and delivering a better product reflects his determination to turn the franchise around. Fans eagerly await the upcoming season, hoping for a resurgence under the leadership of Barnes and Quickley.

In-depth coverage of the Raptors and the NBA can be found on The Athletic, where Eric Koreen serves as the lead Raptors writer.