Following the Toronto Raptors previous game versus the Orlando Magic, the team was fined $25,000 for breaking the NBA’s player rest and injury policies. Despite the team’s efforts to tank versus a potential draft lottery opponent, the Toronto Raptors were not only exposed but also won.
The biggest challenge for the Toronto Raptors organization is that their roster is much better than their standings position. In order for the team to fall in the standings and earn a high draft pick in this upcoming NBA draft, they need to lose more games. Currently, according to Tankathon, the Raptors would have the 8th pick in the draft. As good as that it is for a team with a solid core, it could be better.
Expect a more complete Raptors starting roster tonight versus the similarly tanking OKC Thunder.
Similar to last game’s performance, the Toronto Raptors were able to pull out a hard fought win with a limited roster. Freddie Gillespie, who got picked up by the Raptors for a second 10-day contract, showed a lot of promise on both sides of the ball.
Chris Boucher also demonstrated why the Raptors organization has so much belief in his career trajectory. Getting better and better each passing season, the Toronto Raptors have been able to mold a high-caliber NBA player from a 23-year-old who went undrafted back in 2017. The Montreal native finished the game with 31 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block, and 1 steal. He shot over 60% from the field and over 60% from three. If Chris Boucher continues to develop his game the way he has, he could be one of the most cost-effective players for the Raptors roster heading into next season.
In other Raptors news, the team will play the Brooklyn Nets this Wednesday at 7PM EST.
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