Raptors starter turns the tide and dominates this time around

Since his return to the Toronto Raptors, center Jakob Poeltl has faced significant scrutiny due to his inconsistencies and underwhelming performances. It's easy to understand why Jakob Poeltl has become a target of scrutiny; the Raptors traded a coveted first-round pick to acquire the 7-foot Austrian center. If the team had given up significantly less to reacquire Poeltl, fans and pundits would be less concerned.

Furthermore, the Raptors front office secured a substantial four-year, $80 million deal to retain him in Toronto during the 2023 offseason. Given the circumstances, Poeltl was entrusted by many within the organization to anchor a frontcourt that has struggled with depth and talent since the days of the formidable duo of Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka.

Supporters of the Toronto Raptors should acknowledge that Jakob Poeltl has been viewed as a long-term investment by the franchise's front office. If his performances were genuinely subpar, attracting interest from other teams would be relatively straightforward. After all, it is improbable that rival clubs would be willing to part with valuable assets for a player frequently labeled as unfocused or detrimental to team dynamics. Fortunately for Poeltl, maintaining patience has yielded positive results, especially in light of his impressive showing against the 76ers.

Poeltl was arguably the driving force in Toronto's win over the 76ers

Poeltl showcased his potential as a game-changer, leveraging his size against a shorthanded Philadelphia team missing Joel Embiid. It was a complete turnaround from his performance against Cleveland, as Poeltl found his rhythm around the basket, recording 19 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and, notably, four powerful blocks.

Jakob Poeltl's defensive performance against Philadelphia showcased his ability to surpass perceptions of his frame, often labeled as soft and fragile, and demonstrated his substantial interior presence. Jakob Poeltl has demonstrated, from his early years in Toronto to his transformation into a more complete player in San Antonio, that he was one of the most underrated big men in the league.

Perceptions of Jakob Poeltl's identity shifted significantly upon his return to Toronto, where expectations mounted. While some fans may feel impatient or frustrated with his performance, recent evidence from last season underscores his importance to the Raptors' success. Poeltl may not match the caliber of star big men like Joel Embiid or Nikola Jokic, but he possesses his own strengths.

Fans should temper their criticism; when Poeltl is fully engaged and performing at his best, victories are within reach for the Raptors. However, this does not mean he is entirely untouchable; he could be traded for the right offer. It is crucial for fans to acknowledge his strengths just as readily as they critique his off nights.