Toronto opens its Emirates NBA Cup schedule tonight against Orlando, the team it beat 129-99 on October 28. The Raptors are 3-1 and fourth in the East, and the Magic arrive 1-3 on the third straight game of a road trip, with Jalen Suggs, Jonathan Isaac and Paolo Banchero all out.
Defense Before Everything
Rajakovic told TSN's Josh Lewenberg that Toronto has the league's best defense right now and that Jakob Poeltl has a lot to do with it. He also called Poeltl the starter four games in. The Toronto Star, carrying a Canadian Press story, reported that opponents are scoring a league-low 102.5 points per game against the Raptors. That is the number to watch. Poeltl's box score is modest, at 2.8 points and 4.5 rebounds in 19.5 minutes, so his case is built on the possessions he ends rather than the ones he finishes.
The Center Behind Him
Poeltl and Collin Murray-Boyles both got into early foul trouble on Wednesday. Lewenberg reported that Rajakovic liked what he saw from Jackson-Davis, who had 6 points, 11 rebounds and 2 blocks in 20 minutes, and said everything is on the table for his role. Raptors Rapture argued that Toronto can't keep overlooking him. Nate Bittle, sidelined by a right foot problem, has an estimated return of November 2, which would add another body to the frontcourt.
Leonard and the Trip West
According to Lewenberg, Rajakovic again said there is no timetable for Kawhi Leonard. The coach said Leonard is getting treatment outside Toronto and responding well so far. His injury listing gives November 23 as an estimated return. The load has shifted: Ja'Kobe Walter is playing 33.7 minutes per game over his last five, and Jamal Shead has picked up 11 more per game with a teammate out. After tonight the Raptors go to the Lakers on November 1, the Clippers on November 2 and Denver on November 4. The open question is whether a defense this good can hold up on that road stretch without its best wing.
When is Kawhi Leonard expected back for the Raptors?
Rajakovic said there is still no timetable, according to TSN's Josh Lewenberg. Leonard's injury listing gives November 23 as an estimated return for his left knee.
Who is starting at center for the Raptors?
Rajakovic said Jakob Poeltl is the starter four games in. He also said everything is on the table for Jackson-Davis after his 11-rebound night against Orlando.
