Flying under the radar isn’t a one-season issue. Except for the Raptors’ vociferous fanbase, few give this team the credit it deserves.
The Toronto Raptors have been playing well again this year–3rd in the East and 20-8 (as of Dec 18, 2017). But very few across the NBA seem to be paying attention.
One reason is that the Raptors didn’t make “sexy” moves this off-season. And while they play well at home (11-1), they’re not an overpowering team on the road (9-7).
But it would be a mistake to say that flying under the radar is a one-season issue. It always seems to be that way–except, of course, for the Raptors’ vociferous fan base.
The Raptors deserve more attention but rarely get it. That needs to change.
First of all, Toronto has a solid starting line-up. DeMar DeRozan is averaging 24 ppg, 4.6 rpg, and 5 apg. He’s a legitimate NBA star who works hard to keep improving. He told ESPN recently that he wants to “continue to grow as a player, as a leader, and keep pushing the envelope. Understand my flaws from the year previously and come back better this year.”
Kyle Lowry, DeRozan’s sidekick, is also excelling at 16 ppg, 6.3 rpg, and 7.2 apg. Both players contribute mightily to the team’s 113.3 Offensive Rating, which is 3rd in the league right now.
Serge Ibaka (photo, SI.com)
Defensively, the Raptors have Serge Ibaka patrolling the paint and stretching the floor with his perimeter shooting. That creates space for Jonas Valanciunas to dominate inside. And CJ Miles (trade from Indiana) is a consistent three-point shooter who has been stretching the defense and freeing up space inside.
But, let’s face it. Cleveland is the primary reason why the Raptors don’t get the respect they deserve. Air came out of the tires in 2016 when Toronto had a solid season record (56-26) but then lost to the Cavs in the Eastern finals.
The Raptors are a very good team that hasn’t yet secured that breakout, eye-popping win. Let’s hope they do it … and soon. This team is simply too good to play in the shadows.
