Toronto Raptors: Stock up, stock down after chaotic week

Stock Up: Dalano Banton

Goran Dragic hasn’t played in the last three games for Toronto. Perhaps coincidentally, they have all been wins. Banton has taken advantage, as a player originally billed as an offensive project has shown enough improvements to be worthy of playing time.

Banton put together a week in which he averaged 6.0 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. Those aren’t amazing numbers, but when you factor in the spark he provides on defense, his ability to charge to the rim, and improvements as a shooter, it’s clear Banton is a viable NBA player.

Dalano Banton provided heart and hustle for the Toronto Raptors.

Banton has not only taken time away from Dragic, but he’s essentially rendered Malachi Flynn (a first-round pick in 2020) and David Johnson (selected exactly one pick after Banton) completely irrelevant as far as the rotation is concerned. That doesn’t happen by accident, especially for a coach like Nurse.

Banton still needs to take some steps forward as an offensive player, but he is already miles ahead of the borderline liability he was at Nebraska. Banton is only going to get better, and Toronto should take advantage by riding this hot streak and nurturing his growth in the pros.