Raptors panic meter: Which concerning trends could sink the season?
By Mike Luciano
Gary Trent Jr’s inconsistent play
Trent is averaging just 11.5 points per game this season while shooting under 40% from the field and 3-point range. With how well he played last year and the role he was supposed to play this year, the shortcomings of Trent have been magnified for all to see.
After opting into his player option in search of a big deal next year, Trent was tagged with the role of Sixth Man on a team that was not expected to light up the scoreboard or shoot particularly well. He’s had some moments, but Trent hasn’t been nearly as effective a scorer on the bench as he was in the starting lineup.
Gary Trent Jr. must step up for the Toronto Raptors.
Even with Barnes taking a step forward as a shooter, Toronto’s spacing is still painful at times. Trent playing heavy minutes and teaming with OG Anunoby could give this team a major shot in the arm, but he hasn’t lived up to his end of the bargain. Trent has always been streaky, but he’s had some stinkers this year.
Of the three impactful players that could hit the free agent market next year in Trent, Anunoby, and Siakam, GTJ seems like the least likely of the three to be retained. If he doesn’t turn back the clock to the Nick Nurse era, it might be tough for him to get market value and for the Raptors to keep up with elite offensive teams.
Panic Meter: High