Stock up, Stock down as Raptors finally return to full health

Stock Up: Thad Young

Young was inserted into the starting lineup at center when Siakam was down due to injury, and he ended up playing so well that Gary Trent Jr. and Scottie Barnes were moved to the bench. While Barnes was back with the starters, Young played so well that Nurse kept him in with the intent of being a veteran glue guy.

While Young’s scoring has slowed down since Siakam has returned, he is still a quality offensive rebounder and passer that is generating turnovers and getting everyone else involved (or at least trying to) on offense. Given how well Trent played off the bench, Young will likely stay as a starter.

Thad Young has been an invaluable presence for the Toronto Raptors.

Young was not on the floor very much in the Pelicans game, as Nick Nurse thought that Koloko was better equipped to handle the gargantuan frontcourt of Jonas Valanciunas and Zion Williamson. Young’s skills might be neutralized against taller centers, but he’s too valuable to be put back in a limited role.

The move that sent Trent to the bench, which the young guard seems to be fine with, has worked for both parties. The Raptors’ starting lineup adds a wily veteran who has the experience needed to match up against some of the best in the league, while the bench can allow Trent to chuck to his heart’s desire.