But those example are all flawed, and actually prove the point. They all involved high draft picks.
Cleveland didn't tear it down? They have had 4 first overall picks in the last 15 years
Houston - Superstar FA Harden joined their team (3rd overall pick) (Then Chris Paul a #4 pick)- Not happening to Toronto that these FA's come. But even then they were both top picks.
Spurs - Drafted Duncan 1st overall. They built a team around him for 15 years. Since he left how have they done? Hint - Same as Raptors
Celtics - They pulled off the greatest trade in pro-sports history. So yes they are an example of how it could be done, if you can make the best trade in history of any sport.
Heat - Umm Lebron (1st pick) Bosh, (4th) and Wade (5th) decided to team up and make a super team.
GS - The one example of actually drafting semi lower and being elite. And then they have a #2 overall join them.
So you are correct that you don't have to burn it down to get these picks and draft the players. Other teams can pick them, and they can leave for your team
