Toronto Raptors: Takeaways from a manhandling by the LA Clippers

Toronto Raptors need to attack the rim

The Raptors were horrible from beyond the arc, shooting 8-for-36 or 22-percent. While the Clippers finished with a poor percentage themselves (30-percent), they have a plan of how to attack when the 3s aren’t falling. Toronto doesn’t appear to have that tool in their toolbox.

When the Raptors made their surge in the third quarter, they weren’t settling for 3s. In fact, OG Anunoby notably passed up a good look just to see what was available at the rim. That possession didn’t end up going very well, but the concept was spot on.

Additionally, the Raptors used Gasol as a passing cog atop the key. He towers over others, making perfect passes to cutters. When shots aren’t falling early, the Raptors need to resort to these plans earlier on in the game. Toronto needs to find different ways to generate offense other than behind the arc.

The one player who didn’t seem afraid to attack the basket was OG Anunoby. Whatever Nurse can do to get Anunoby’s attention about his offensive value will go a long way for the Toronto Raptors.

It wasn’t the most fun night — except for Leonard’s return– but the Raptors can use this to fuel their offense going forward. If not, then we’re in for a long season.