Toronto Raptors: 3 takeaways after preseason loss to Celtics

1. OG Anunoby can be a primary offensive option

Anunoby has made some major improvements to his offensive game in every season since he came into the league. 2021-22 is requiring him to make the biggest leap yet given his increased role without Kyle Lowry. Based on what we’ve seen against Philadelphia and Boston, he is ready to start unleashing his scoring upon the rest of the NBA.

After leading the Raptors in scoring during their 2 games against Philadelphia, Anunonby totaled 17 points on 6-14 shooting. Only Fred VanVleet had more points in this game. The most impressive part of this performance was how he got those points, as he looks better than he ever did as a ball-handler and pull-up shooter.

OG Anunoby could lead the Toronto Raptors in scoring.

Nurse has given Anunoby the green light to take a shot whenever he deems it fit, and that has led to some very promising moments for a Raptors team that needs to find a long-term replacement for Lowry’s scoring. With Pascal Siakam still on the mend, look for Anunoby to pick up the pace.

Anunoby is one of the most unique players in the NBA, as there are very few with his combination of muscle, dexterity, and shooting all in one package. Now that he’s becoming a creator, he should be in for a major uptick in scoring production by the time the regular season comes around.