(Toronto) The young Raptors may have had a bit of a slow start, winning just once in their first four games.
Here they are, however, with a record of 6-3; they go through the best streak in the NBA tied with the Heat, also undefeated for five games.
Looks like they’re picking up a beat, playing cohesively. The break-in period was going to be longer, observers believed.
“Since the team is so young, it surprised me yes,” said Montrealer Khem Birch of the team’s convincing play. Young people have a lot of freedom and that gives them a lot of confidence. Hence the results lately, in my opinion. ”
Toronto is coping without star player Pascal Siakam, who is recovering from shoulder surgery.
Friday at the Scotiabank Arena, against Cleveland, rookie Scottie Barnes will be back after two games of absence, related to a right thumb injury.
It’s clear that Fred VanVleet is thriving in his new leadership role, following the departure of Kyle Lowry. He just led his own with 33 points in Washington, including several big baskets, when the Wizards threatened.
“It’s an ongoing process,” said coach Nick Nurse of VanVleet. We are still getting to know each other as a team.
“We have to identify the strengths of each, but already, there is improvement in terms of spacing in attack. ”
“Fred spots how the guys are going to move and the best action for him to do, among other things. He also varies his shots well, which helps us a lot. ”
Birch’s contract was extended for three years during the offseason.
The 29-year-old has played a solid role in the current streak, following a start to the season where he was recovering from contracting COVID-19.
Birch says he’s fully recovered and enjoys playing for the Raptors immensely, having played about four seasons with Orlando.
“He’s a great example of a team mentality,” said Nurse, of Birch’s skills in passing the ball and making screens.
“This way of playing (without being a big pointer), that’s what got me here,” said Birch. I’m not going to change my style. ”
Heading into Thursday night’s games, the Raptors led the NBA with 11.1 steals per game, on average.
They were third for the average points awarded (100.2).
After the game against the Cavaliers (5-4), Toronto will host the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday.