3 Raptors players who could’ve participated in the All-Star Skills, Three-Point, and Slam Dunk Contests
By Mike Luciano
The Toronto Raptors were shut out of the All-Star game for the first time in almost a decade, as their poor start and the sudden influx of perimeter talent in the Eastern Conference prevented the Raptors from extending their streak.
There won’t even be any Toronto presence in the fun competitions, as the Skills Contest, Three-Point Contest, and Slam Dunk Contest will all go on without anyone on the Raptors. Terrence Ross’s 2013 title was the last time Toronto was able to bring a trophy back home after the festivities.
While names like Steph Curry, Luka Doncic, Julius Randle, and Devin Booker, to name but a few, are involved in the festivities, Nick Nurse’s squad came up empty, either through indifference or the fact they aren’t allowed to due to the league’s health and safety protocols.
While the looming COVID-19 specter would make a gathering in Atlanta an unnerving scenario, it would’ve been cool to see these 3 players put on a show.
These 3 Raptors could’ve put on a show at All-Star weekend
Raptors Skills Challenge Nominee: Kyle Lowry
The Raptors almost took home the Skills Challenge title last year, as Pascal Siakam participated during his first All-Star weekend. While the Cameroonian big man was unable to take home a title, Lowry might be able to breeze through the guards bracket and take home the whole title.
Lowry’s ability to perform every offensive action at an average or an above-average level has prolonged his career and made him one of the greatest players in franchise history. In a contest that is all about versatility, Lowry has enough, if you’ll pardon the redundancy, skill to win this Skills contest.
Lowry is well-rounded enough to win the competition for the Raptors
In a contest that tests your passing, dribbling, and shooting in a fast-paced environment where every second counts, why not bet on someone that has been excelling at all of those facets for the bulk of his time in Toronto?
The Skills Competition might not be the most gripping piece of entertainment given how short it is, but if the Raptors wanted some hardware, it would’ve been nice to see Lowry wipe the floor with the rest of the field.