When looking at the Toronto Raptors biggest strengths as a team, you probably think of defensive versatility, team IQ, and 48 minutes of high-end point guard play. Those are all true, and yes, those make a big difference. However, one of the most underrated aspects of the roster’s construction is Marc Gasol‘s and Serge Ibaka‘s unique combination of rim-protection and shooting.
Yes, even as the NBA game continues to slowly slide farther and farther from the hoop, rim protection is still the premier skill a center can provide. More shots come at the rim than from either the mid-range or from 3, and those shots at the basket are still the most efficient in basketball.