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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Nov 15, 2021; Portland, Oregon, USA; Toronto Raptors center Khem Birch (24) dunks the ball. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports /

Khem Birch (Canada)

Birch is coming off a year in which nothing went right, prompting Toronto to find a potential replacement in Christian Koloko. Getting back into a groove with Canada would have made for a dream offseason, but injuries have prevented him from putting on that red and white jersey.

Birch missed a golden opportunity to get back on the right track, as offseason surgery needed to correct some of his 2021-22 ailments have made it impossible for him to suit up for Canada. While he will be back in time for Raptors training camp, it’s a bit disappointing that he was unable to suit up.

Toronto Raptors: Khem Birch hasn’t performed due to injury.

With Koloko having been picked last year and Birch fresh off a regression, the veteran needs to come into Raptors training camp with all of the world’s momentum at his back to make a case for the rotation. Playing with Canada could have been an excellent start for him.

Birch is still an unknown despite his age. Is he going to play like the resurgent Tampa player that earned a three-year contract or the struggling player who was a negative offensively even when he was at full strength? With no preseason action to lean on, Toronto isn’t closer to an answer.

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