Toronto Raptors: 3 players who need to step up on West Coast trip

1. Pascal Siakam

Siakam has been on a minutes restriction early in the season, as Toronto wants to make sure beyond a shadow of a doubt that he isn’t being overburdened or jeopardized. This series could be what finally forces the Raptors to unleash Pascal upon an unsuspecting Western Conference.

It appears as though Siakam’s 35 minutes against Detroit served as a sign that any potential cap on his time on the floor is coming to an end. Siakam looked like the All-Star player we have all seen him be in the past against the Pistons, meaning he’ll get ample opportunities to show off how far along he is in his recovery.

Pascal Siakam could take a step forward for the Toronto Raptors.

The Raptors might be 0-3 in games Siakam has played this season, but that’s not a reflection on his play. He’s been his usual self, save for a very poor game against Boston. This road trip could be exactly what he needs to get his mojo flowing once again.

Siakam has managed to up his efficiency percentages so far this season, and his per 36 minutes stats show that he’s been forcing turnovers and rebounding the ball at a better rate than he put up last campaign. If he starts upping his usage rate to what we saw in the last few years, the scoring numbers should skyrocket.