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Toronto Raptors: 3 Reasons the team can be successful this season

By David Morassutti

Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors stands during the national anthem before playing against the Philadelphia 76ers. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images)
Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors stands during the national anthem before playing against the Philadelphia 76ers. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) /
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Toronto Raptors
OG Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors goes to the basket against the Philadelphia 76ers. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) /

Toronto Raptors need OG Anunoby to step into larger role with Pascal Siakam sidelined

Heading into his fifth season, the Raptors will need OG Anunoby more than ever especially with Pascal Siakam not expected to play for at least a month or maybe more.

There’s no denying the defensive impact Anunoby has when he’s on the court and we have started to see his offensie skills improve. A noticeable improvement has been with his ball handling and shooting from beyond the arc.

Considering the struggles Siakam went through last season, maybe this is the best opportunity for Anunoby to challenge him as the top offensive player. At the same time, if both show they are capable, it will mean a lot for the Raptors considering many believe the lack of a “true No. 1 scoring option” will keep them from being a contender.

They don’t necessarily need a guy who can perform like Kevin Durant to be successful but the Raptors need to see some internal growth considering how tough it has been to recruit in free agency.

Last season, Anunoby averaged 15.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. It was a modest improvement on what he contributed in the prior year but now, that needs to improve significantly and that should come with Anunoby earning a bigger role.

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