The Toronto Raptors performed so well in Summer League play that they made it to the postseason, as their 3-1 record is indicative of a team that had the perfect blend of youth, aggression, and intensity on the defensive end. Having both blown teams out and come from behind, Toronto has looked very sharp.
The Raptors have committed to the philosophy of building a positionless team that swarms to the ball on defense and attacks the opposition by hunting out favorable mismatches on offense. With three wins in four, including a comeback against the Charlotte Hornets, the young guys are gelling well.
Toronto fans have been treated to the debut of Scottie Barnes, the continued improvement of Malachi Flynn, and a preview of what could be a large chunk of the Raptors 905 roster this year.
With the previously scheduled portion of Summer League in the books, and with Toronto having gotten a very good look at some of the more unknown players on this roster, it’s time to examine which players played so well they should be heralded and which need to step their game up.
Toronto Raptors Summer League Superlatives
Best Offensive Player: Precious Achiuwa
Achiuwa, who arrived from Miami in the Kyle Lowry swap, is not only making a case for some increased playing time, but a spot as the premier reserve on this team. Achiuwa was dominating in the paint during his first action in a Raptors jersey.
16.7 points and 7.3 rebounds are impressive enough by themselves, but it’s how he got those statistics that were even more impressive. Achiuwa wasn’t just hanging around the basket, as his propensity for screaming down the floor and rocking the rim with a thunderous jam was on full display.
MORE DUNKS FOR YOUR HEADTOP 👉🏽👉🏽 pic.twitter.com/JbYhauzJeH
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) August 15, 2021
Precious Achiuwa looked like a force on offense for the Raptors.
Achiuwa showed off a much-improved jump shot, which will be critical if he is to take the next step with Toronto. Achiuwa being able to expand his offense past the 3-point line will only make his ball-handling, explosion off of the dribble, and rim-running skill that much more lethal.
Achiuwa was expected to play well in Vegas, and he more than proved he is capable of dominating this level. With some minor improvements to be made to his jump shot and passing skills, Precious could take that next step and start showing off his quality at the NBA level.