Toronto Raptors: Stock up, stock down as losing streak extends

Stock Down: Toronto’s perimeter defense

What the heck happened? Toronto is still forcing turnovers at an above-average rate, but they have been sniped to death of late despite some individually excellent on-ball defenders. Against a horrid Pistons offense and a Blazers team lacking depth, Toronto was unable to stop their perimeter barrages.

Opponents are making just under half of their overall shots while draining 39% of their 3-point attempts. Keep in mind that those numbers include a Boston game in which the Celtics went cold late. Whatever unique aspects this defensive scheme had to offer have been completely and utterly exposed.

The Toronto Raptors have been torn up on defense.

Scottie Barnes and OG Anunoby are doing everything they can, but it appears as though Nurse’s positionless scheme is perhaps a bit too aggressive at the moment, as quick passes and ball movement can help opponents get easy looks. Toronto needs to fix that as soon as possible.

The Raptors are going to get back in the fight based on the strength of their defense, but the unit just isn’t clicking right now. Nurse is one of the best coaches in the NBA and will likely have an adjustment coming in the next few games, but this is still hard to watch at times.