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Toronto Raptors: 3 players playing well in their new roles

By Nickeem Khan

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 11: Malachi Flynn #8 of the Toronto Raptors attempts a shot as RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks defends during their game at Madison Square Garden on April 11, 2021 in New York City. The Knicks defeated the Raptors 102-96. 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 Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 11: Malachi Flynn #8 of the Toronto Raptors attempts a shot as RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks defends during their game at Madison Square Garden on April 11, 2021 in New York City. The Knicks defeated the Raptors 102-96. 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 Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /
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There’s about a month remaining of games left for the 2020-21 regular season. Things haven’t been easy for the Toronto Raptors, but there have been many silver linings to take away. With injuries and players being out due to health and safety protocols, it has led head coach Nick Nurse to mix and match a variety of lineups.

However, there have been a few players that have made the most of their opportunities. As there are many Raptors coming back into action within the next few games, Nick Nurse has a really good problem to deal with going forward with the rest of the season.

With the high level of play each player is bringing into every game, they are making a serious case for more playing time, especially those who are trying to stay on the roster despite their non-guaranteed contracts.

After Paul Watson and Yuta Watanabe combined for 51 points in Toronto’s win against the Orlando Magic, it’s become clear that whatever Nurse has been preaching has been well received by the Raptors bench.

Here’s a breakdown as to how these players have been improving lately.

These 3 Toronto Raptors players have been playing well

Khem Birch, Toronto Raptors
TAMPA, FLORIDA – APRIL 14: Khem Birch #24 of the Toronto Raptors(Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

No. 3: C Khem Birch

51 games into the season, the Raptors finally acquired the big man they so desperately needed. Although the sample size of what Birch has done in Toronto is small, being only three games. He has already provided a much-needed impact.

In his first four games with the Raptors, Birch is averaging 9.5 points and 6.0 rebounds per game.

Birch has provided a great energy boost off the bench, despite starting in Toronto’s last games against the Magic and Spurs. Whether or not Nurse elects to keep Birch within the starting lineup or have him come off the bench, it’s evident what you’re getting out of him every night.

Khem Birch gives the Toronto Raptors size

Birch will provide a consistent effort on both ends of the court. You know what you’re getting from him every time he checks in the game. A high motor player, who’s gonna be extremely aggressive on the glass, and give you great pick and roll chances on offense. Everything that the Raptors needed.

It’s safe to say that the Aron Baynes experiment didn’t work out, but the Raptors finally have a player to fulfill the needs of that center position. If Toronto ends up making a push for a spot in the play-in tournament, Birch will be a vital reason for it.

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