Toronto Raptors: The bench needs to step up in game 3

Norman Powell

‘Playoff Powell’ has been a key factor in recent years in terms of his streaky performances. When Powell is on and has a favourable matchup, he can be a complete game-changer. When he’s off his game or in a bad matchup though, Powell tends to struggle finding shots and his overall rhythm on the floor.

Norman Powell put up 10 points in game 1, but did so while shooting only 33%; In Game 2, the guards struggles continued as he shot 1/5 from the floor. Powell’s minutes decreased in the second game, and that can partially be attributed to the matchup. The Celtics are a stout defensive team and have the size to disrupt Powell’s game.

Seeing as this isn’t his ideal matchup, all the Raptors can ask for is efficiency. Toronto needs offensive consistency at the moment, and Powell shooting 29% for the series isn’t good enough. No one is expecting Powell to drop 30, but a more patient approach would do Powell and the rest of the Raptors bench well. Hopefully for Toronto Norm can see his minutes pop back up in game 3, assuming he’s in a bit more control of his shot.