The Raptors do not need, nor should they expect, all-star level play from the second-choice centres they added to the roster this season.
It would be blatantly unfair to think Aron Baynes or Alex Len, serviceable big men in many regards, could match the production of — or handle the responsibility shouldered by — the departed Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol.
But what the Raptors need is a level of consistent, average play that they have to yet to receive from the summer acquisitions.
It is among the handful of troubles that have led to one of the worst season starts in franchise history, and one that needs addressing sooner rather than later.