The Raptors were interested in Detroit's John Hammond before they hired Babcock, or at least pretended to be. They told him he was a leading candidate, then interviewed a series of candidates with far fewer credentials than Hammond.

It was an insulting thing to do to a guy who had helped build the 2004 Pistons championship team.

But that's not the only reason Hammond politely will decline any overtures from the Raptors. First, he's extremely happy and secure. Second, the Raptors are always going to be the "B" franchise to the Maple Leafs in Toronto.

If Hammond is ever to move, and he does deserve a shot to run his own team, it will be to a place where he will have a fair chance to succeed.