Article content As final tune-up tips go, there were enough stretches to suggest the Raptors are well prepared for the grind that awaits when the ball gets tossed for real beginning with opening night next Wednesday and a home date against the Cleveland Cavaliers. At no point during the team’s five-game exhibition schedule were the Raptors able to field a healthy roster. Much will be made of Friday night’s opening lineup, but the ensuing days and news on the various injury fronts will dictate the starting group and whatever bench head coach Darko Rajakovic decides to employ, what roles are designated, what minutes are doled out.
The two main takeaways from Toronto’s trip to Brooklyn involved Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley, two players who happen to be the team’s best and most indispensable. For what he does in the post, the way he’s capable of controlling the glass, his soft hands and ability to finish at the rim, the third key cog is Jakob Poeltl. Depending on the health status of RJ Barrett, who missed his fourth preseason game in a row following a shoulder setback in the opener, the potential to have four legitimate pieces on the court at least provides some hope.
Wins will be elusive, but the Raptors do have the makings of being an entertaining team. How many wins are achieved will ultimately hinge on their ability to make three-point shots and defend, especially when shots aren’t dropping. For the record, the Raptors closed out the preseason with a 3-2 .
