Toronto Raptors: Ranking the Projected Starting Lineup

Toronto Raptors: Ranking the projected starting lineup for 2021

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 11: The Toronto Raptors teammates Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors and OG Anunoby #3 of the Toronto Raptors react during the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics in Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Second Round during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 11, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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Aron Baynes – Phoenix Suns (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images) /

5. Aron Baynes

Newly acquired Aron Baynes will most likely helm the starting center spot to begin the season. You know what you are getting from him on a regular basis. Having been a starter during his time in Boston and Phoenix, Baynes brings a veteran presence to the 5 spot for the Raptors.

Baynes is the easiest transitionary piece out of the newly acquired players – as he has similar characteristics to both Gasol and Ibaka. His size, length, and IQ will be helpful in the middle for the group. He is a good complementary piece, who can do the little things and take a bit of pressure off the rest of the starters.

Baynes’ defensive toughness, hustle, rebounding, massive screen setting, and newly added 3-point shot will be the major attributes he can add to the starting lineup. He won’t be able to fill the entire hole left by Ibaka and Gasol, but he’ll do enough to hold steady against other centres in the league.

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