It has been a tale of two seasons for Jamal Shead.
Before February, Shead looked completely in control of the offence. He averaged 5.5 assists to just 1.3 turnovers, and the Raptors outscored opponents by 4.5 points per 100 possessions with him on the floor.
Since February 1st, leading up to Toronto’s game against the Utah Jazz on Monday, it had been a different story. Shead averaged 4.2 assists against 1.3 turnovers, but the Raptors were outscored by 1.1 points per 100 possessions in his minutes.
Beyond the numbers, the shift has been noticeable. Defenses have adjusted to Shead’s inability to score consistently, and he has not looked nearly as comfortable running the offense.
The front office noticed Shead’s struggles
Before facing the Utah Jazz on March 23rd, the Raptors signed Markelle Fultz to a 10-day contract.
Fultz plays the same position and brings a similar style of play as Shead. Both are feisty defenders with strong playmaking instincts, but limited shooting.
The Raptors could have been preparing for a change in the rotation if Shead’s struggles continued, or simply sending a message.
Jamal Shead responded in a big way
In the first game after the signing, Shead delivered.
With Immanuel Quickley sidelined, he stepped into the starting role and set a career high in assists with 14. He scored just seven points, but controlled the offence throughout, looking much closer to the player he was earlier in the season.
It was his first double-digit assist game since January 16th, and a reminder of what he can look like when he is fully in control of the offense.
Shead will need to continue to prove himself
This coaching staff has shown a strong commitment to Jamal Shead. Despite his struggles, he has continued to receive consistent minutes. It is clear that Toronto views him as a potential long-term piece.
His performance against Utah was an encouraging response, but one game does not erase the concerns that surfaced over the past two months.
The playoffs are getting closer by the day. If Shead slips back into that stretch of inconsistent play, the Raptors now have other options. He may still have the upper hand in the battle for backup point guard minutes, but the front office has given the coaching staff a viable alternative if those struggles continue.