3 keys to Raptors leapfrogging Nets in loaded Eastern Conference

TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 07: Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets drives on Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 07: Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets drives on Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)
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Toronto Raptors
Apr 7, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (4) goes after a rebound as forward Precious Achiuwa (5) looks on. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

2. Own the glass

With rookie Christian Koloko still the only player on the Raptors’ roster taller than 6-9, Toronto might run into some trouble on the glass. While they ranked near the top of the league in offensive rebounds due to their hustle and energetic style, the Raptors were near the very bottom in defensive rebounding.

The Nets have gone all-in on a smaller style of play that prioritizes quickness and shooting over bulk inside, and the Raptors could benefit from that. Nic Claxton could be a force if he develops properly, and KD’s height makes him dangerous in the post, but that shouldn’t be too problematic for this Raptors team.

The Toronto Raptors must rebound well against the Nets.

With Koloko looking like he’ll be a semi-regular rotation presence, Toronto’s ability to dominate Brooklyn inside could start to blossom earlier than expected. Without LaMarcus Aldridge to help take some of the pressure away and with Day’Ron Sharpe not a rotation player, the Nets lack the firepower to keep up with Toronto.

Toronto’s opening night win against Cleveland looked like more of the same. The offensive glass was theirs the entire night, but Jarrett Allen also bullied them in the paint. If Claxton is allowed to assert his will like this, Toronto will be rightfully chewed out by Nurse.