What the Toronto Raptors need to do to win the NBA Finals in the next five years

No. 3: Get the most out of Immanuel Quickley

The Toronto Raptors invested a lot in Immanuel Quickley, targeting him as the centerpiece of the OG Anunoby trade and then handing him a lucrative five-year contract. If they want to win a title, then Scottie Barnes need a co-star, and Quickley is Toronto's best bet for a second All-Star.

Quickley doesn't seem to have the same upside as Barnes, but there is meat left on the bone for his development. He is a smooth shooter and can increase his volume and shot utility, which in turn will open up his drive game. He is a good passer and hopefully on-ball reps will improve his playmaking vision and execution.

What the Raptors have working in their favor is that their best player is a big forward, so having a smaller perimeter creator as the No. 2 is not a death sentence defensively. Recent teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers (Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell) and Portland Trail Blazers (Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum) were stymied by small backcourts. The Raptors can pair a larger defender at the 2 with Quickley to maximize two-way lineups.

Taking the time now to set up Quickley for long-term success will maximize the Raptors' chances at reaching the mountaintop, and if that development stalls, it's better for Toronto to know sooner rather than later.