NBA Stretch Run: Evaluating Toronto Raptors’ Future Amidst Barnes’ Absence
Four Raptors Players in Need of Stellar Performances to Secure Their Positions
The NBA season is entering its decisive stretch, with the All-Star Break now behind and March marking the final month of regular-season games before the April 14th conclusion. The Toronto Raptors are set to play their remaining 22 games over the next six weeks, closing out the 2023-24 season.
However, the absence of Scottie Barnes, potentially for the entirety of the final stretch, makes reaching the Play-In Tournament unlikely for Toronto. Currently trailing the 10th-place Atlanta Hawks by four games, with the Brooklyn Nets in between, the Raptors’ postseason aspirations are nearly extinguished.
This implies that the remainder of the season will serve as a crucial evaluation period for the roster. Questions arise about which players the team will prioritize for future development, who might face cuts, trades, or non-retention in the offseason. A strong finish to the season could be the key difference between securing their future and facing unemployment, either with the Raptors or in the NBA at large.
Let’s delve into four players whose futures are uncertain and explore how a robust performance in the final quarter could be imperative to preserving their positions.
No. 4: Jalen McDaniels
During the summer, the Toronto front office secured a small victory by signing Jalen McDaniels, a 6’9″ wing with previous solid contributions to the Charlotte Hornets. However, his time with the Raptors has been disappointing, averaging just 8.6 minutes per game in 35 appearances. Ranking last in field goal percentage among players appearing in at least 30 games, McDaniels needs to capitalize on Barnes’ absence to prove his value and avoid potential relegation to minimum deals.
No. 3: Ochai Agbaji
The Raptors’ Trade Deadline deal with the Utah Jazz included acquiring Ochai Agbaji, a second-year lottery wing. However, Agbaji’s performance has been somewhat underwhelming, shooting just 30 percent from deep since joining the Raptors. As the team evaluates young players in the final stretch, Agbaji must make the most of increased playing time to secure his place in the rotation.
No. 2: Chris Boucher
Once considered a success story, Boucher’s role has diminished, and his future with the Raptors is uncertain. Under contract for the next season at $10.8 million, Boucher needs to prove himself in the closing stretch to fend off competition and retain his spot in the rotation.
No. 1: R.J. Barrett
Evaluations of the Raptors’ trade with the New York Knicks generally agreed on OG Anunoby and Immanuel Quickley but were divided on R.J. Barrett. The enigmatic nature of Barrett’s NBA future persists, with a career-best scoring average since joining the Raptors. However, the team has been outscored when he is on the court. Barrett has a chance to establish himself as a core player, but a poor finish could cast doubt on his impact.
In conclusion, the final 22 games hold immense significance for these players, shaping their future with the Raptors and influencing decisions about their roles in the NBA.
