3 takeaways from Toronto Raptors tight home opener vs. Cavs

2. Christian Koloko proved he can play right now

Koloko played in his first regular season NBA game on opening night. The rookie impressed many with his play in the preseason, but would his game translate to the regular season? With Khem Birch and Chris Boucher out, giving Koloko some minutes seemed like a prudent move by Nick Nurse.

Koloko entered the game in the first quarter, showing that the mammoth Cameroonian skillset was an integral part of Nurse’s game plan in this matchup. Koloko impacted the game almost instantly, as he blocked Darius Garland with around 3:45 left in the quarter.

Christian Koloko looked impressive for the Toronto Raptors.

The Raptors looked like a different team with the seven-footer out there. I think Koloko proved he can protect the rim at the NBA level. His height and mobility could make the Raptors more dangerous on the defensive end if it hasn’t already. The poise he showed for a second-round rookie was incredible.

Koloko played 15 minutes. He finished the game with three points, six rebounds, and one block. The rookie missed three of his four field goal attempts, but these are things that can be ironed out and smoothed over with extra playing time. The raw talent was there, and that’s what you want to see.