3 Things we learned from Raptors' promising first 6 games

The Toronto Raptors are 1-5 after their first six games of the year. It should be obvious to anyone that their record is not a good one. However, it also does not feel indicative of the current feelings towards this team.

Despite the slow start in the win-loss column, there is not a lot of doom and gloom surrounding this team. Considering that the Raptors are a young team with modest expectations, at best, one would find it difficult to be overly displeased with the team, and some of the encouraging signs that have been displayed to this point.

When watching and discussing a rebuilding team, one should typically look for signs of growth, promise, and future success. There are several takeaways from the first six games that display just that.

Ochai Agbaji's noticeable improvements

Some questioned the Raptors' decision to trade draft capital for Kelly Olynyk and Ochai Agbaji before last season's NBA Trade Deadline. Agbaji averaged 6.7 points per game last season, shooting 39.1 percent from the field and 21.7 percent from beyond the arc after joining the Raptors via trade. Many were quick to dismiss his potential based on this.

Nevertheless, Agbaji's youth presents a valuable opportunity for growth within the team. Early indicators suggest that he is developing in a positive direction.

Due to the injuries that have affected the Raptors at the start of the season, Agbaji has been averaging a notable 28.8 minutes per game over the first six games. He has demonstrated the potential to evolve into a reliable 3-and-D player, averaging 11.2 points per game while shooting 55.1 percent from the field and 35.3 percent from beyond the arc.

The sustainability of Agbaji's production will be a central theme to watch throughout the season for the Raptors.

The rookies are legit

It's safe to say that this year's rookie class has not exactly set the world on fire. However, when it comes to the Raptors' draft class, there are numerous reasons for excitement.

Jamal Shead and Jonathan Mogbo have made a strong case to be rotational pieces for the Raptors this season. Jamison Battle has also had some flashes of intrigue. The thing that would really tie a nice bow on the situation would be Ja'Kobe Walter establishing himself as a capable player.

Walter made his NBA debut on Friday night against the Los Angeles Lakers. He only scored 5 points on 1-8 shooting from the field. If Walter can find his groove as the season goes on then Toronto can walk away from the 2024 NBA Draft feeling like they found some exceptional success in an underwhelming draft class.

Gradey Dick's offensive leap is real

Some viewed Gradey Dick as an obvious weak link in this year's starting lineup. However, the reality could not be more different. Dick dedicated the offseason to bulking up and filling out his frame, which has significantly improved his performance as a finisher around the basket.

Dick has come out of the gates, averaging 20.8 points per game while shooting 48.9 percent from the field and 37.2 percent from beyond the arc. He is currently the Raptors' second-leading scorer, trailing only RJ Barrett.

His mid-range scoring has also proven challenging for opposing teams to defend. So far this season, Dick has set a new career high in scoring three times. It may be time to elevate expectations for how good this second-year pro can become at the NBA level.