"When a reporter inquired whether there was a particular reason for his decision not to use Agbaji, Toronto's head coach simply replied, " No. I just made the decision to go with other guys." The exchange didn't end there, as the reporter followed up with, " How come?" Rajakovic responded, " That's how I decided to give opportunity [sic] to other guys. Coach's decision." Now, there's no more point-blank answer than that from Coach Darko, who has a knack for replying in this blunt tone."
"Just look back at when he was asked why Immanuel Quickley wasn't on the floor to close out Toronto's game against Orlando at the end of December - Jamal Shead was simply playing better, so he got the nod over IQ. I mentioned at the time not to read too deeply into such developments beyond a rough night. However, I'm not sure if the same rules apply to Ochai Agbaji."
"In all honesty, Agbaji has been fortunate to receive as much playing time and opportunity as he has this season. He's even started 11 games this year, which is quite generous to say the least. But the reality is that, for one reason or another, his ability to be effective for Toronto seems to have run its course. He's currently averaging 4.2 points on 41.8% shooting from the field, and a significant drop to just 17.1% from beyond the arc."
Ochai Agbaji did not suit up for the Raptors against the Celtics on January 9 despite roster injuries. Head coach Darko Rajakovic said he chose to go with other guys and framed the decision as a coach's choice. Rajakovic has previously made blunt, performance-based lineup decisions, such as favoring Jamal Shead over Immanuel Quickley late in a December game. Agbaji has started 11 games this season but is averaging 4.2 points, shooting 41.8% overall and 17.1% from three. Agbaji previously provided near-40% three-point shooting and solid defense, but current form and emerging alternatives threaten his rotation spot.
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