Where do the Toronto Raptors starters rank among East playoff teams?
By Jeff Borsuk
With NBA playoffs starting soon, we will break down the starting five for each of the Eastern Conference teams and evaluate where the Toronto Raptors fit.
The Toronto Raptors are entering the playoffs as a two-seed and favourite to go on a long run. The Eastern Conference has improved greatly in 2019 and arguably has stronger brackets for the first time in years making it difficult to predict who will represent the east in the finals.
In anticipation of the first round, we analyzed the breakdown of each starting lineup for the teams who have qualified for the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. Where does the Raptors starting unit fit?
The bottom of the barrel
8. Detroit Pistons
- PG, Reggie Jackson
- SG, Wayne Ellington
- SF, Bruce Brown Jr
- PF, Blake Griffin
- C, Andre Drummond
The Detroit Pistons finished the season, narrowly qualifying for the playoffs. They have a group that is dominant in the front-court. Teams will struggle to contain Blake Griffin and Andre Drummond. There’s sure to be a battle in the paint every game, especially since in the playoffs things get physical.
Reggie Jackson has proven to be the type of player that can shine in Dwane Casey’s system. He is a solid defender and dependable shooter. He has never reached his potential, which has often been attributed to being on the same team as Russell Westbrook with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Jackson will be an important part of the team’s success. He averaged greater than 15 points and four assists per game this season.
Despite their lack of weapons, the Raptors are happy not to face off against the Pistons in the first round. The Pistons have had the Raps number all year. They also have Thon Maker, the Raptors killer, on their bench ready to go.