Three predictions for the 2013-2014 Toronto Raptors

The Raptors are one of the most intriguing teams in the NBA this season and much of that has to do with Masai Ujiri's arrival as the team's new GM.

Here are three predictions for the upcoming Raptors season.

1. Kyle Lowry will lead the Raptors in Estimated Wins Added

Lowry, entering the final year of his contract, is a player that grades very well with the advanced statistics because of his effectiveness on both ends of the floor. The only thing holding him back is health.

Last season only Amir Johnson had a higher EWA than Lowry (6.7 vs. 6.5) among full-time Raptors and Johnson played 13 more games than the point guard. In 2011-2012 while playing for Houston, Lowry had a EWA of 5.9 in just 47 games.

This prediction is banking entirely on Lowry's ability to stay on the floor. He's off to a tepid start on that front – he must wear a splint on an injured finger for the first six weeks of the season but is able to play through the injury.

2. Jonas Valanciunas will average at least 14 points per game and eight rebounds

The sophomore centre is expected to make significant strides this season. He's reported to have added some serious muscle to his 6-11 frame and tore up the Las Vegas Summer League in July taking home MVP honours.

Last year, he averaged 14.9 points in 7 games in April when he averaged over 30 minutes played for the first time all season. The most rebounds he averaged in a month was 7.3 boards in an average of 27 minutes over 15 games in March when he was named the NBA's Rookie of the Month. On the season he averaged 8.9 points and 6 rebounds.

If he can avoid foul trouble, he'll get the minutes to improve on those numbers.

3. Drake will be court side at over 25 games.

The Raptors' "global ambassador" is telling anyone willing to listen how much he loves his hometown team. 25 games covers over half of the home schedule as well as appearances on the road in his other favourite cities like Houston and Miami. After all, he does has another job.

Remember, enjoy the basketball everyone! (Even if you're not sitting courtside).