TORONTO — The Toronto Raptors have reached the midway point of the 2023-24 NBA season, showcasing significant individual performances that are noteworthy for fans and analysts alike. Following a recent loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, head coach Darko Rajaković expressed both optimism and caution regarding his team’s progress. He emphasized the need for continual improvement and humility, stating, “Players individually are getting better. There is a lot of reason for us to look back and be satisfied with what we have achieved.”
Despite this optimism, the Raptors face challenges ahead. The team has one of the most difficult remaining schedules in the Eastern Conference, ranked third in opponent winning percentage, following only Chicago and Brooklyn. In February, they will navigate nine games across six cities, introducing a demanding travel schedule that could test their resilience.
Key Performers Shine in Midseason Grades
As the Raptors examine individual contributions, the midseason report card highlights players who have excelled, particularly Scottie Barnes and Jamal Shead.
Scottie Barnes, a forward/centre, has earned an impressive grade of A. In 40 games, he averages 19.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. His performance has elevated since making his first All-Star Game as a commissioner’s pick, showcasing his growth as a key player on both ends of the court. With an increasing offensive burden lifted by Brandon Ingram, Barnes has thrived, especially during stretches when starting centre Jakob Poeltl was sidelined due to injury.
Conversely, Jamal Shead has also received high praise, earning an A- grade for his role as a guard. In 41 games, he averages 7.0 points and 5.4 assists per game, demonstrating critical playmaking ability. His performance during clutch moments has proven pivotal, with the Raptors outscoring opponents significantly when he is on the court.
Assessing Team Depth and Future Challenges
The Raptors’ midseason report also reflects on the depth of the roster, where several players have had mixed outcomes. RJ Barrett earns a B grade despite missing 18 games due to injury, highlighting the impact of his low-maintenance scoring style when available. Meanwhile, Gradey Dick and Ochai Agbaji struggle with lower grades, indicating a need for improvement in their shooting effectiveness.
Ingram’s presence has notably eased the scoring load on Barrett, allowing him to play a more efficient game. With Ingram averaging 21.7 points and 6.0 rebounds per game, he has quickly become a crucial part of the Raptors’ offensive strategy.
On the defensive end, Collin Murray-Boyles stands out with a B+ grade, marking him as a player to watch for his disruptive defensive skills. His recent performances suggest he could become a significant asset as the season progresses.
Despite some promising individual performances, the Raptors face questions about their overall depth and health. Poeltl’s ongoing back issues raise concerns for the team’s future, as they rely on his defensive presence in the paint. His limited playtime has resulted in a C- grade reflecting the challenges he faces.
As the Raptors head into the second half of the season, Rajaković’s ability to maintain motivation and cohesion will be critical. With the schedule becoming increasingly demanding, the Raptors must leverage their strengths, particularly the contributions of players like Barnes and Shead, to navigate the upcoming challenges successfully.