#rj-barrett

#rj-barrett

Quickley's defence continues to show real improvement in transition, where his aggression forced a turnover early. Early in the first quarter, he stood his ground impressively when Jabari Smith Jr. tried to post him up, showcasing added strength and discipline. Offensively, however, it was a rough night - his trademark floater deserted him, missing a few he normally converts with ease. Quickley still hasn't quite found his rhythm on that end of the floor.

"I've never been a horrible defender, so I was kinda confused on that, but I've gotten better and i want to continue to get better and be a two way player, thats kind of my calling card so I want to continue to embrace that"A common theme during media day thus far has been defense, and Toronto's focus on it this season and throughout the summer.

The modern NBA is about spacing. Perhaps once upon a time it was about strength and size and moxie, but the name of the game in this century is spacing. How are you using the vertical space, the horizontal space? How do you open up space on the perimeter for shooters to get open, space in the paint for cutters and drivers to score, space around playmakers for them to dime up teammates in the right spot to score?

Despite a tough outing, RJ Barrett averages 21.1 points per game this season, highlighting his development even as he and Quickley are rested for tonight's game.