What we know after 41 games
On Saturday night, the Raptors finished the first part of their season with an exhilarating comeback that fell two points short against defending NBA champions, the Golden State Warriors. It has been a franchise-best record for the Raptors in the first half of the season as the Raps finish with a 29-12, which is the second-best in the Eastern Conference. Here is what we know going into the second half of the season.
The rise of DeMar DeRozan
DeRozan is arguably the most underrated all-star in the NBA (Sports Illustrated rated him number 36 on their top 100 NBA players of 2018). He has always turned heads around the league, yet lacked the respect of an elite all-star for his predictable mid-range shooting.This year, however, is different: DeRozan has continually improved his left-hand shot, making him more dangerous at the rim. He has also become a playmaker, averaging five assists a game, and has introduced the three-point shot in his repertoire. DeRozan has become a more dynamic player and every year seems to be adding something new. If you’re a Raptors fan, you have plenty to be happy about with your franchise player.
The ball-moving bench
The young squad led by veteran and three-point specialist CJ Miles, and the double point guard look of Fred VanVleet and Delon Wright has been the surprise that no one was anticipating. They are athletic, long, move the ball, and let their defense dictate their offense.And the two big men, Pascal Siakam and Jakob Poeltl, give the Raptors strong rim protection, which leads to strong and exciting transition offense. And the best part? They’re fun as hell to watch.
Fewer minutes, more rest for DeMar and Kyle Lowry
Kyle Lowry is in his 12th season in the NBA and he’s not getting any younger. The depth of the Raptors has allowed both all-stars more rest come playoff time, which is important in light of Lowry’s injury history (including his bruised tailbone and back spasms he suffered against Brooklyn last Monday). Lowry has played five less minutes per game, which will pay dividends this postseason, that is, if Lowry can stay healthy.
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