Toronto Raptors won’t go down easily as they look to defend their crown

NBA Toronto Raptors Fred VanVleet (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
NBA Toronto Raptors Fred VanVleet (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
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NBA Toronto Raptors Pascal Siakam (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Who will assume the role left open by Leonard’s departure?

When the moment comes for Nurse to decide who he will trust to take a clutch shot at the end of games, who should he rely on?While Leonard was perfect for this role and filled it admirably, Nurse has at least 3 to 4 offensive options he can choose from.

The Raptors also have 5 players who average at least 15 points per game, so his options are plentiful. Siakam and Van Vleet  have truly developed into all-star caliber players while Lowery continues to be the backbone of this team as well as a leader on the floor and in the locker room.

Siakam has mainly been the focal point of the offense, leading the team in scoring averaging 22.9 points per game. The first time all-star has proven that he’s ready to assume the role Leonard played last season if he is called upon. His ability to adjust to double teams and score against elite defenders make him the perfect candidate to fill this role.