"New Orleans has one of the worst defenses in the NBA, their rim protection at the center position is lackluster, and their backcourt defense is lacking as well. Whether it is Derik Queen or DeAndre Jordan starting at the center spot, it is a huge weak point in their defense, along with Zion Williamson who is not the best mover on that end."
"Toronto should have no issue exploiting New Orleans' weak paint defense, and they should have no issue running on them in transition as well. Pick n'roll actions involving the Pelicans center will lead to very good looks for Toronto, it is just up to them to cash in on them."
"Toronto does have the defenders to handle Williamson, especially if Jakob Poeltl and Collin Murray-Boyles are able to suit up. Toronto will have the size and bodies to make Williamson's path to the paint very tough."
The Toronto Raptors travel to face the New Orleans Pelicans on the second night of a back-to-back after losing to Houston. Despite New Orleans ranking 13th in the Western Conference, the Pelicans possess talented scorers in Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy who can impact games significantly. New Orleans struggles defensively, particularly in rim protection and backcourt defense, with weak center play from DeAndre Jordan or Derrick Jones. Toronto's strong defensive rating and offensive capabilities position them to exploit New Orleans' paint vulnerabilities and transition opportunities. The Raptors possess the defensive personnel and size to contain Williamson's scoring threats, especially with Jakob Poeltl and Collin Murray-Boyles available.
Read at Raptors Republic
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