4 Raptors role players who need to step up to seal playoff spot

1. Gary Trent Jr.

Trent might be starting and given a huge diet of shots every game, but he’s not been himself since the All-Star Break. For every dominant showing where he puts up 42 points against a contender like Phoenix, there’s been a night where he makes two shots and scores eight points immediately after.

Trent is shooting just 33% from the field and 29.5% from 3-point range since the All-Star break. Keep in mind that those numbers include a 42-point game and three other outings of at least 23 points. Trent has always been a bit streaky, but this is a concerning valley at an inopportune time.

Toronto Raptors guard Gary Trent Jr. needs to rediscover his shot.

Trent has five straight 30-point games earlier in the season, which is a testament to his ability to get hot quickly. As long as he possesses that microwave ability, Toronto is going to put the ball in his hands when they need a triple. It’s just on him to make sure he covers his chances.

Trent is still a solid defender that ranks third in the league in steals per game. His finishing is also much better than it was during his first year with Toronto. Trent will eventually find his 3-point shot once again, but the Raptors must hope he discovers it before the postseason rolls back around.