Three reasons why Serge Ibaka is invaluable to the Toronto Raptors

All-Around Offense

Finally, Serge Ibaka’s offensive game has evolved every season he’s been in the league and now he is an all-around offensive weapon. He can be used in a variety of ways which makes things easier not only for him but for the entire Toronto Raptors team. With his size and shooting ability, Ibaka has become an effective scorer from all areas of the floor.

Ibaka’s three-point shooting was below 30 percent last season, but it has made a considerable jump to almost 40 percent this year. His much-improved stroke from deep is something the Raptors love, as that gives them an opportunity to space the floor more when he’s on it. His shooting ability also makes him a valuable pick and roll/pop option. The Lowry-Ibaka P&R combo is as close to unguardable as it gets in today’s NBA.

Serge isn’t only a deep threat, he is a threat at every level of the floor. His interior game is smooth, using hook shots and floaters effectively to keep the defence guessing. He is shooting over 50% on hook shots and 43 percent on floating shots this season. He can also grab offensive rebounds and get second-chance points. He still can throw it down when the opportunity arises, as defenders have to make a business decision before they jump with Air Congo. They could end up on Twitter or on a poster in someone’s room if they try to stuff one of Ibaka’s dunk attempts.

When his mid-range shot is falling, Ibaka becomes and even more difficult guard. He becomes an even more dangerous threat when involved in the pick and roll. He can pop to the mid-range area which, again, makes Ibaka a nightmare to defend in pick-and-roll situations

Invaluable is the proper word to describe Serge Ibaka for the Toronto Raptors. He is such an asset to have both on and off the court from his leadership to his play. Toronto knows how much of a blessing Ibaka has been to the team and it should do everything it can to keep him. Ibaka is on an expiring deal and will be a free agent at season’s end. What will it take for Toronto to secure Ibaka’s services beyond this season? “A lot of 0’s” is the answer.

Going back to his days in OKC, Ibaka was often considered one of the premiere “Three and D” big men in the NBA. His game has improved and evolved so much to where there can be a real discussion whether he is one of the best such big men in the league. Whether it be on offence, defence, or just his energy, fire and passion, Ibaka’s all-around game continues to transform Toronto’s team identity, and he’s a big reason why the Raptors appear poised for another deep playoff run in 2020.