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Toronto Raptors: 3 biggest strengths of the Raptors roster

By Mike Luciano

TAMPA, FLORIDA - APRIL 05: Gary Trent Jr. #33 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates with teammates after scoring a 3-point buzzer beater to defeat the Washington Wizards 103-101 at Amalie Arena on April 05, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. 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 Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FLORIDA - APRIL 05: Gary Trent Jr. #33 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates with teammates after scoring a 3-point buzzer beater to defeat the Washington Wizards 103-101 at Amalie Arena on April 05, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. 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 Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /
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Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – AUGUST 15: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images) /

2. An excess of ball-handlers

The Raptors might not have Lowry, but that might not be as big a detriment to their offensive attack as it may sound on paper. Via the sign-and-trade that sent Lowry to the Miami Heat, some savvy free agency moves, and some solid drafting, the Raptors are eschewing traditional point guard and shooting guard labels in favor of this unique attack.

Just take No. 4 overall pick Scottie Barnes for example. If Nick Nurse can get him to improve his jump shot, Toronto might have stumbled upon a 6-7, 230-pound point guard with supreme defensive skills, the ability to get easy shots inside, and a basketball sense that belies his age.

The Raptors can come at teams in several different ways.

VanVleet and Malachi Flynn both figure to see their scoring increase this season, and Goran Dragic could provide his usual blend of shooting and incisive passing this season. Barnes’ draft classmates were two oversized college guards in Dalano Banton and David Johnson.

Heck, even Anunoby and Siakam would be more than comfortable initiating the offense from the perimeter. The possibilities are endless!

In a league that loves to either play non-stop iso ball or shoot the ball as soon as it passes half-court, Toronto is leaning heavily into the notion that any player on the floor should be a threat to distribute, shoot, or dribble the ball. With so many competent ball-handlers, Nurse will have endless creativity when it comes to figuring out lineups.

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