Toronto Raptors: 3 questions Toronto need to ask themselves in offseason

Raptors question No. 3: Should Khem Birch be the starting center?

To the surprise of many, Khem Birch has flourished as a starting center for the Raptors. One may even argue that if Toronto had Birch from the beginning of the season, the Raptors would definitely be positioned for a playoff spot. With the great play of Birch it becomes a question of if the Raptors trust Birch to be the starting center long term?

Some fans might jump and proclaim that Chris Boucher should be the starting center next season, which is valid, there are many reasons as to why Boucher shouldn’t. Although Boucher is an amazing shot blocker, his thin frame is a liability on defense at times, as it allows more physical players to use it to their advantage.

Boucher averages 2.8 fouls per game, which is only 0.4 behind Siakam, who leads the team in that category. The major difference is Siakam plays 36 minutes a game, which Boucher plays 24. With more time on the court, it’s only logical to assume that number will only increase.

The Raptors bench thrives with Boucher on it, so it wouldn’t make sense to remove him from where he’s been successful.

Khem Birch should start over Chris Boucher.

Birch, however, has brought tremendous energy, and is a big that fits the Raptors playstyle perfectly. He’s athletic, mobile, and doesn’t require the ball in his hands to leave a mark on the game.

Regardless of if Lowry returns with Birch or not, VanVleet can definitely uplift Birch the same way. Birch has emerged into a new player with Toronto, and it’s a possibility that there’s another gear for him to reach.

With this past season being much different than what the Raptors are used to over the past few years. The front office will have a lot of work on their hands. These questions along with many others will need answering, and once they’re done, we could be looking at a Raptors team that we’re not familiar with.