Toronto Raptors: Five reasons Toronto is a title contender

Danny Green will be a key piece for the Toronto Raptors this season.

When the Toronto Raptors sent DeMar DeRozan to the San Antonio Spurs for Kawhi Leonard, Danny Green was included primarily for salary matching purposes. Through just a few games, he is showing why he is much more than just a throw-in.

He is one of the most significant factors towards the Raptors visible improvement this season. He is a sharpshooter from deep who can lock down almost any perimeter player.

He has a quick trigger and spaces the floor against opposing defenses. C.J. Miles was brought in last season for precisely this purpose and proved to be inconsistent and inefficient. Danny Green can provide what C.J. Miles could not.

Having Danny Green on the floor improves spacing without sacrificing defense in the process. Nick Nurse feels confident with Danny Green’s play as he has logged the third highest minutes per game this season for the Raptors.

If the Raptors are going to make it deep into the playoffs, Danny Green will have to remain consistent with his shooting, and provide a high level and energy and defense. Ultimately, Green is just a role player, but a crucial one at that.