Who is the best defender on the Toronto Raptors?

The Toronto Raptors lost two great defenders in Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green, but they are still recognized as a great defensive team. How do all current Raptors rank among each other as defenders?

The Toronto Raptors took a big hit in free agency when they lost Danny Green to the Lakers and Kawhi Leonard to the Clippers. Not only were they a key part to the Toronto Raptor’s offense, but they were essential to the way Toronto defended as well. Even after Leonard and Green’s departure, the Raptors front office were able to make additions that allowed them to be seen as a strong defensive unit.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Stanley Johnson are young versatile defenders who will be able to contribute right away. Patrick McCaw and Marc Gasol being brought back also helps the Raptors on that end as they did a great job of putting pressure on the person they were guarding. OG Anunoby will also be back after missing the entire playoffs after undergoing an emergency appendectomy, and he was widely considered as the team’s best defender during the 2017-2018 season.

There is no question that the Toronto Raptors will continue to have a strong defensive identity, but it does leave some to question who the best defender is. This ranking could be fun for bragging rights but it also might be useful going into next season.

Who will guard the best player? Are they able to guard different styles of play at their position? How does their perimeter defense compare to their post defense? There are many ways to find out who the best defender on the Raptors is, and I am determined to find out.

This list will rank the best defender on the Toronto Raptors by taking into account versatility and effectiveness.