2. Play Malachi Flynn for at least 25 minutes every night
The Raptors have been using Flynn off the bench more often, as Nurse is well aware of how desperate his need for high-end perimeter scoring is. After years of inconsistency and befuddling handling by this coaching staff, the former first-round pick has shown signs of life lately.
Flynn has averaged 11.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while making 41% of his 3-pointers in the last three games. Nurse is often quick to abandon Flynn when he struggles, but he needs to lean on the San Diego State product as much as he can in the next few weeks.
The Toronto Raptors must utilize Malachi Flynn.
On the season, Flynn is nailing 46% of his 3-pointers while attempting just under three per contest. That efficiency is as good as there is in the league, so sticking that skill on the bench would be the dictionary definition of shooting yourself in the foot. This is Malachi’s time to shine.
The Raptors were given ample opportunity to move off him in the offseason, but Masai Ujiri kept him and picked up his fourth-year option for a reason. This is the perfect chance for Flynn to flex his proverbial muscles, and the early returns have been somewhat positive.