This season started with the Toronto Raptors’ young players as question marks. Out of the jumble of talent, who would take the biggest step forward? Who would earn their spot in the rotation?
What’s been most surprising over the first month is that Toronto’s bench isn’t just reliable, it’s become the catalyst of success. The schedule runs like clockwork: after an ill-fitting starting lineup hits the doldrums, the young guys come in, provide some energy, and get the Raptors back into the game. It happened twice this week in wins, as Toronto went 2-1 against Boston, Houston, and New Orleans on a mini road trip.