Tonight the Raptors’ final preseason game tips off, this time against the Detroit Pistons. So far, Toronto has split the preseason with a 2-2 record. They started off-balance when they lost handily to the Heat, but followed it up with convincing wins over the Clippers and Knicks and a single-possession loss to the Knicks yesterday. The Pistons are 2-1 in the preseason.
Detroit will have both a homecourt and rest advantage, having played their last contest on Wednesday. With this being the last preseason
game though, it’s likely the benches will be cleared to cement final roster decisions for both teams before the official start to the season. Plus, both teams still have things they need to work on.
One of the bigger themes of the preseason has been Toronto’s size and rebounding issues. In both losses they were beaten on the boards, and in both wins they controlled them. Not insignificant, especially given their lack of traditional depth at center. This could be a point of concern tonight as Detroit has size and rebounding power. Jalen Duren was 6th in the League last year in rebounds per game, supported by Cade Cunningham, John Collins, and Ausar Thompson who all averaged more than 5 rebounds per game as well. That, all before you even look at their bench or backups. To win the battle, we’ll probably see a lot of Collin Murray-Boyles tonight who has a great presence around the rim at both ends and seems to be able to read exactly where the ball is going. Scottie will have to step up too, especially when Poeltl is on the bench.
Detroit has tooled their roster for size and space, with Duncan Robinson, Kevin Huerter, John Collins, and Isaiah Joe all strong shooters to complement and provide room to operate for Jalen Duren. Cade Cunningham has done a remarkable job distributing the ball and running their offence, always finding the open man and right play. He was second in the League last year on assists and hasn’t even hit his prime yet.
Toronto’s defence has looked solid over the last couple of games, especially on the wings. This will be a great challenge for them, as plenty of teams around the League continue to develop similar offensive schemes.
The Raptors’ offence has also been a lot more polished over the last few games, with Kawhi, RJ, and Scottie all taking turns leading the team in scoring. Quickley, CMB, Shead, Battle, Key, Burnett, and Walter have all managed double-digit performances.
It would be a great way to start the season above .500 in the preseason.
Where to Watch
Tune in at 7pm ET on Sportsnet
Probable Starters
Toronto: Scottie Barnes, Jakob Poeltl, Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, Kawhi Leonard
Detroit: Duncan Robinson, John Collins, Jalen Duren, Cade Cunningham, Ausar Thompson
Injury Status
Toronto: Nate Bittle
Detroit: None listed
