Well... you can't really out-tank a team like the Washington Wizards, so it came as no surprise when the Toronto Raptors got the job done on March 24, defeating their D.C. foes with a final score of 112-104.
On the Raptors' side of things, they owed a great deal of thanks to players like Immanuel Quickley, who blossomed in the matchup against the Wizards, notching 21 points, seven assists, and four rebounds. Scottie Barnes also had a near triple-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. While both men didn't have the cleanest shooting performances (both shooting 31.3% from the field), Toronto would raise their hands in victory nonetheless.
However, the Raptors' most impactful player, who was critical to their winning efforts, was veteran center Jakob Poeltl. He had a very efficient night, scoring 21 points on 76.9% shooting from the field, along with 11 rebounds, three blocks, and two steals, all in just over 25 minutes of action.
The verdict may still be out on Poeltl and his long-term status within the franchise, but if this season has taught Raptors Nation anything, it's that their success in games often relies on the Austrian big man's presence in the paint and his contributions on the court.
Jakob Poeltl has been a bright spot for the Raptors all season long
Poeltl has shown that even at 29 years old, he is just now hitting his stride, posting career highs in points and rebounds this season. He has emerged as a key highlight for an otherwise mediocre Raptors squad in the 2024-25 campaign.
His availability often serves as the hinge between a Raptors victory and a loss. I can think of countless games in which Poeltl sitting out or being ruled out mid-game due to injury resulted in Toronto's efforts faltering. That early-season Nuggets game certainly comes to mind, as does the time the Raptors were absolutely decimated by the Grizzlies in a historic franchise loss.
If it’s not Poeltl as the team’s most consistent and impactful rotation piece, then perhaps the argument could be made for RJ Barrett. However, his scoring efforts can often be overshadowed by his lackadaisical defense at times. Because of this, I’m more convinced that it is, in fact, Jakob Poeltl.
He may not have a refined offensive game, but for what Poeltl excels at, you can bet he'll come through when you need him most. He has a nice touch around the basket with his floater, he's been a great partner in the pick and roll, and, believe it or not, Poeltl has even knocked down a three-pointer this year.
I know Toronto can't keep all their assets moving forward, or at least, that's what it seems like. There is a very realistic scenario in which the Raptors explore trading some of these beloved players, and Poeltl happens to be a likely name on that list.
That said, I hope Toronto's front office recognizes the impact and consistency he brings, as well as the developments he's shown as an otherwise fully evoled veteran, which could justify keeping him around. Unless, of course, the Raptors can find a fitting future replacement—perhaps Khaman Maluach or Derik Queen, anyone?