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Stock up, Stock down after first 4 Raptors’ preseason games

By Mike Luciano

Oct 9, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan (11) moves the ball against Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam (43) Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan (11) moves the ball against Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam (43) Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto Raptors, Dalano Banton
TORONTO, ON – DECEMBER 5: Dalano Banton #45 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) /

Stock up: Dalano Banton

Perhaps no player has had a more important or successful preseason than Banton. With Malachi Flynn out due to an injury, Banton has performed so well that he is making a legitimate case for the backup point guard spot behind Fred VanVleet.

Banton has scored at least eight points in each preseason game, including a combined 25 during the Houston and Chicago games. While he’s not exactly establishing himself as a master shooter, the fact he looks demanding and in control as a ball-handler and driver is very encouraging.

Toronto Raptors: Dalano Banton has been balling in the preseason.

Banton’s defense and energy will always be his calling card, but the entire reason that Scottie Barnes even got chances at point guard last year was the fact that Banton was too ineffective and passive on the offensive end. He looks to have overcome those flaws so far.

Banton’s stats show that he is clearly too good to play in the G League, and his numbers with Team Canada in FIBA AmeriCup play show he can dominate other professionals for extended periods. If Team Canada Banton wears No. 45 for Toronto this year, the rotation questions will be solved.