Dwane Casey named Eastern Conference Coach of the Month

The holiday season was good for the Toronto Raptors, and it’s paying off for their head coach. Dwane Casey was named Eastern Conference Coach of the Month for December, as the Raptors finished with an 11-3 record — their best December in franchise history. It’s the fifth time Casey has earned the NBA’s monthly honour.

Okay yes, a lot of December’s games came against weaker opponents. But look at the big picture, people! It’s excellent regardless to see Casey get recognized for his work this season.

The Raptors have been relatively seamless in shedding their old skin, starting fresh with a new offense and a new emphasis on moving the basketball. Casey, who used to be stubborn to change, has been at the helm of this (yes, we’re saying it again) culture change. And when it doesn’t work? He’s had some clutch-time calls too, including the heady decision to go back into the isolation bag on Monday against Milwaukee.

Some highlights from the Raptors in December? They went 6-0 at home, came back from 17 down against Memphis and 23 down against Philadelphia, and hit season-highs in three-pointers (16) and assists (35) against Charlotte. A good ass job.

Casey is now in his seventh year at the head of the Raptors, and will continue doing his job tonight as the Raptors take on Chicago.