Toronto Raptors depth proving to be strongest asset

After a convincing win over the Philadelphia 76ers, it is time for the Toronto Raptors’ depth to get more credit than they have been receiving.

The only teams that are capable to stay afloat when they are going through a string of injuries are the ones who have enough quality depth, insert the Toronto Raptors as one of those teams.

Going up against the Philadelphia 76ers with a fully healthy starting lineup, the Raptors showed how they can matchup up against one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference who experts predicted to be ahead of Toronto in the standings. It was also important for the team to understand how to avoid a disappointing finish to a game that has been a problem for them the past couple of weeks.

What was impressive about the Raptors win wasn’t just the opponent they beat but how the scoring was spread across the lineup is not something you see every day. In fact, it hasn’t been done since 1996.

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The win at home also highlights how important it will be to secure home-court advantage during the playoffs. While it would be tough to catch Milwaukee for first place in the East, if they can catch the Miami Heat for second place in the conference, it would help them in a big way.

Not only does this Raptors team have a distinct advantage with their depth because of their ability to get scoring from various players, but they are also no slouch defensively as well. Basketball reference has them sitting second in the NBA with a 105.41 defensive rating which shouldn’t be a surprise.

When you look at some of the games the Raptors play, you would think that their hot and cold swings offensively and habit of turning the ball over would make life tough on Toronto. Fortunately, Masai Ujiri has built a team that doesn’t sway one way or the other when it comes to how they balance their offensive and defensive production.

What do you think about the Raptors play recently? Can they keep this going or are there any red flags? Let us know in the comments below.