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Toronto Raptors: Grading the team by position group

By Thomas Valentine

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 11: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors is introduced prior to an NBA game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Scotiabank Arena on December 11, 2019 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 - DECEMBER 11: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors is introduced prior to an NBA game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Scotiabank Arena on December 11, 2019 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 – OG Anunoby (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Small forward

Players: OG Anunoby, Patric McCaw, Malcolm Miller, Stanley Johnson

The Raptors have more depth at small forward than anywhere else but in terms of actual quality, it’s their lowest-ranking positional group. That’s not to say that it’s a bad group, by any means, but the Raptors have more talent elsewhere.

OG Anunoby is the obvious starter and one of the premier wing-defenders in the NBA, even at just 22 years old. After a strong rookie season, Anunoby fell by the wayside in his sophomore year on account of the arrival of Kawhi Leonard. After just one season in Toronto, Leonard left and Anunoby assumed his role as the starting small forward once more.

In 63 games this year, Anunoby has averaged 10.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists a night, shooting 51-percent from the field and 38-percent, a stark improvement across the board, Elsewhere, Patrick McCaw shows flashes of potential but is often a frustrating presence due to his lack of offensive sparkle.

Malcolm Miller has been a fringe contributor for the Raptors over the past three seasons but injuries have frequently derailed his progress, while Stanley Johnson hasn’t had much of a look in this season. When he has, he hasn’t impressed.

Anunoby is definitely the headliner of the group, but after him, the Raptors’ depth at small forward is a little iffy. McCaw could turn into a competent role player, but he still has to show signs of life on offense. For now, this group ranks last.

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