In the heart of February, the Toronto Raptors find themselves in an intriguing position. While much of the league is caught up in the tanking frenzy, the Raptors are focused on winning when it matters most. This shift in strategy is a refreshing change for fans who have spent the past couple of years wondering if their team was more interested in losing than winning.
Scottie Barnes, reflecting on the current state of play, expressed his excitement about competing for something significant in the final stretch of the season. "We’ve got a great opportunity at hand.
We’ve just got to take full advantage of it," Barnes noted before the Raptors secured a 110-101 victory over the Chicago Bulls. It wasn't a flawless performance, but in a season where every win counts, an ugly win is still a win.
Yet, the Raptors face three critical questions as they push towards the playoffs.
How important is a big man?
Jakob Poeltl's presence has been a game-changer for the Raptors in previous seasons. His on-court impact was clear, with the team performing significantly better when he played.
However, this year has been different. Plagued by a back injury, Poeltl has been limited and spent significant time off the court.
Despite this, the Raptors have managed to slightly outperform opponents when he's not on the floor, unlike past seasons.
Poeltl's return from injury is crucial. His ability to set screens, play pick-and-roll, and provide defensive stability makes him indispensable.
"He’s been great for us," Barnes emphasized. Poeltl himself is eager to contribute fully, stating, “I’m not gonna hold back now...
I’ve got to give it my all.”
Can the Raptors score when the game slows down?
Offensive challenges are nothing new for the Raptors. They rank low in key half-court scenarios, which could be problematic in a playoff setting where the pace slows. While they sit at 16th in offensive efficiency, the margin separating them from lower-ranked teams is razor-thin.
Brandon Ingram's ability to create space is a vital asset, but the team needs more consistent shooting. Poeltl can help by providing a strong presence at the rim and setting effective screens, potentially opening up opportunities for players like Immanuel Quickley.
Coach Darko Rajaković acknowledges the need for strategic adjustments, especially when pairing Poeltl with other key players. The Raptors will need some of their shooters to catch fire to pair their defense with a more reliable offense.
Can the Raptors earn marquee wins?
Facing the top teams in the Eastern Conference, the Raptors are seen as underdogs. They've struggled against the likes of Detroit, New York, and Boston, while finding some success against Cleveland. Their record against top-10 teams stands at 4-13, but they dominate the rest of the league with a 29-10 record.
With a tough schedule ahead, including games against championship contenders, the Raptors need to secure some significant wins to build confidence heading into the playoffs. Their path is challenging, but with strategic play and a bit of luck, they could surprise a few teams.
As the season progresses, the Raptors are poised to make a statement. With key players returning to form and a focus on winning, they have an opportunity to redefine their season and make a push for the playoffs.