Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Part Ways with Legendary General Manager

Masai Ujiri was the architect of the Toronto Raptors' first and only NBA championship, which took place in 2019.

He made a huge trade for Kawhi Leonard that ultimately allowed the Raptors to go on that deep playoff run. Years later, fans are still grateful for all Ujiri has done for this franchise.

Going into the final year of his deal with the Raptors, there were questions about whether or not he would leave, or if ownership would force him out. Today, we got our answer.

According to a report from Shams Charania of ESPN, Ujiri has officially been let go by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, led by CEO Keith Pelley.

This is an earth-shattering move that comes just one day after the NBA Draft. For many in the basketball world, speechless is the only word to describe what is going on.

Masai Ujiri and the Raptors have struggled over the last few seasons, but it makes sense given the departures of Fred VanVleet, Leonard, and even Kyle Lowry. The team is in the midst of a rebuild, and clearly, ownership wanted a new direction.

That said, Ujiri's contributions to Toronto cannot be understated. He was a sensational executive, and we imagine he is going to get more opportunities in the near future.

There were talks years ago that the Washington Wizards were trying to pry Ujiri away from the Raptors. Perhaps now is the time for them to make it happen.

Or, the NBA Champion exec can take some time off for himself and his family. He has certainly earned that right.