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Takeaways from Toronto Raptors distressing loss vs Portland Trail Blazers

By Thomas Valentine

TORONTO, ON - JANUARY 07: Kent Bazemore #24 of the Portland Trail Blazers goes up for a shot as Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors defends during the first half of an NBA game at Scotiabank Arena on January 07, 2020 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - JANUARY 07: Kent Bazemore #24 of the Portland Trail Blazers goes up for a shot as Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors defends during the first half of an NBA game at Scotiabank Arena on January 07, 2020 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /
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Toronto Raptors
Toronto Raptors – Matt Thomas (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /

Matt Thomas: A welcome presence

The return of Matt Thomas to the Toronto Raptors lineup didn’t send shockwaves throughout the NBA world, but having Mr. 99-Percent back on the court for the Raptors is more than a welcome presence.

Right now, it’s most definitely needed. The Toronto Raptors injury crisis is unprecedented, and unsurprisingly, it’s tainted the efficiency and creativity of their offense. Routinely, the Raptors have been stifled by a lack of creativity and decision making, and that’s hurt them. That was no different against the Trail Blazers.

Still, having Matt Thomas back in the lineup is a bonus and opens up the Raptors playbook just a little bit more. When Thomas is hot, he’s hot. But, obviously, he’s missed the last 21 games and shooters work in rhythm, even if they become unconscious at times — although, that’s what makes them so endearing.

Thomas wasn’t in rhythm all night long, he made 2-of-6 from the field, and predictably, both of those makes were three-pointers, but that’s exactly what the Toronto Raptors need from him. Their three-point shooting has been pretty abysmal over the last five games, ranking 21st in the NBA. A far cry from their season average of 36-percent, which ranks sixth in the NBA.

While Thomas won’t change those numbers all by himself, he’ll certainly aide the cause. His second three-pointer was a thing of beauty, running off a Chris Boucher screen to hit a corner three with the smoothest of strokes.

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