ESPN host questions Raptors' fan loyalty compared to Grizzlies

During a recent episode of ESPN's The Hoop Collective podcast, a discussion about the Memphis Grizzlies turned into a surprising criticism of the Toronto Raptors. The hosts, including Tim MacMahon, suggested that the Grizzlies' "Grit and Grind" team may be more loved in Memphis than the Raptors' championship team is in Toronto. MacMahon acknowledged the Raptors' success, saying they had a good team that reflected their city. However, he controversially claimed that the Grizzlies hold a stronger connection to their fans compared to the Raptors, who won the NBA championship in 2019. Brian Windhorst, another host, disagreed. He pointed out that the Raptors' championship win should elevate their status compared to a team that never reached the finals. Windhorst highlighted that the Raptors' title was led by Kawhi Leonard, who left the team after just one season. MacMahon's comments received pushback, and the conversation quickly shifted to other topics. Critics say the comparison was unfair, as it downplayed the Raptors' connection to their city and their historic championship. They note that the only shared history between the two franchises was their time as the only Canadian teams before the Grizzlies moved to Memphis. Additionally, many fans remember that one of the Grizzlies' key players, Marc Gasol, became a cherished member of the Raptors during their title run.