How have Raptors players performed in international competition?

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 26: Dalano Banton #45 of the Toronto Raptors drives against Buddy Hield #24 of the Indiana Pacers during the second half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on March 26, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) /

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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – MARCH 18: Juancho Hernangomez #41 of the Utah Jazz looks for a pass against Rodney Hood #22 and Amir Coffey #7 of the Los Angeles Clippers (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

PF Juancho Hernangomez (Spain)

The Raptors may have given Hernangomez a guaranteed contract in the offseason, but the among of money being forked over is small enough to where they could cut bait if a more impressive bench player rises. Juancho hasn’t done the most amazing job of impressing Toronto following a strong start.

Hernangomez averaged 9.4 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in Eurobasket competition and 12 total points in two qualifiers for the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Scoring five points in 21 minutes in a victory against the Netherlands doesn’t exactly scream “NBA rotation player.”

Toronto Raptors: Juancho Hernangomez needs to prove himself.

Hernangomez was outperformed by his brother Willy in these games. Despite being coached by a former Raptors assistant in Sergio Scariolo, who may have thrown a few Nick Nurse tips and tricks into his gameplan, Hernangomez has not come out firing.

With most of his value being tied up in what he can do offensively, Juancho can’t afford to have a bunch of extra duds in competitions like these. If Hernangomez can light it up from three, he’ll come screaming into this important preseason with tons of momentum.

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