Celts made splash, but don't forget team north of border

Carlos Delfino, who hopes to make an impact after coming over from Detroit in a draft-night trade, had a fairly strong run through the FIBA Americas Championships, which included dealing with getting hounded by Bryant for two games. He'll be better for it.

Colangelo also brought in the league's most accurate 3-point shooter, Jason Kapono, and added size via Maceo Baston. Anthony Parker is going to be better with a year of getting re-acclimated to the NBA under his belt. Mitchell will get to coach without having to wonder about his future.

It all sounds peaches and cream for the Raptors, doesn't it? Some might even say they have the makings of something special. So why does it feel like they head into the season destined to slip? Is it simply because they've made just one playoff appearance in four years, and we're not used to seeing them on top?

Raptors fans will tell you there's a more sinister reason, a bias towards the States and against youth, which couldn't make them happier. There's nothing Canadians relish more than being an underdog.

According to the Toronto Star, 98 percent of season ticket-holders have renewed this offseason, which ranks tops in the NBA. The team is steadily approaching the number of total season ticket sales enjoyed at the height of the hoops craze up north, back when Carter soared through the air without scorn.

Kidd, if you take him at face value, feels they have every right to be excited. I do too. The Raptors will come in armed, but as underdogs. That's just the way Canada likes it.