"We're in hallowed territory here. Not since the 2020 season has this team had such a competent, confident, resilient, and talented rotation of dudes. I mean, prior to this season, how often - if ever - did you feel like a Toronto Raptors' lead was safe? It was, laughably, almost clock work. The Raptors would be winning the majority of a game. Playing great. The opposing name-your-killer-All-Star - Donovan Mitchell on Monday, for example - totally off kilter."
"Then, fourth quarter comes around and whole things gets flipped upside its head. The bench loses a lead, the name-your-killer-All-Star suddenly goes supernova, and an accompanying random cluster of lesser-known, non-3-point shooting dudes - Nae'Qwan Tomlin on Monday, for example - go red-fire hot from 3 and boom, in an instant - minus the fake comeback rally - game's done. And, there we all are, helplessly staring at our TVs, mouths agape, wondering what the Hell just happened."
"It's different [ pinches self] now. When games are close, this team is calmer, more poised. They're a top-tiered team (6-2) in the clutch shutting teams down when it matters most ( 3rd in clutch opponent points allowed). This Raptors team possesses a certainty that, amongst one another, they'll find a way. Previous iterations of the Raptors were more singular. If X or Y wasn't working, well, better luck next time."
The team features a competent, confident, resilient, and talented rotation reminiscent of 2020. Prior Raptors rosters often surrendered late leads as benches faded and opponents heated up from three. Current Raptors remain calm in close games, converting crucial defensive stops and ranking third in clutch opponent points allowed. Multiple offensive and defensive options exist, including switching lineups, deploying double point guards, or spreading shooters to exploit hot hands. Rotation depth reduces reliance on a single playmaker and enables timely in-game adjustments. Fans experience increased certainty and enjoyment as the team sustains leads and consistently finds ways to win.
Read at Raptors Republic
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