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Toronto Raptors: 5 goals for OG Anunoby’s rookie season

By Nate Wolf

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: OG Anunoby reacts after being drafted 23rd overall by the Toronto Raptors during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: OG Anunoby reacts after being drafted 23rd overall by the Toronto Raptors during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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BLOOMINGTON, IN – JANUARY 10: OG Anunoby #3 of the Indiana Hoosiers shoots a free throw during the game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Assembly Hall on January 10, 2016 in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
BLOOMINGTON, IN – JANUARY 10: OG Anunoby #3 of the Indiana Hoosiers shoots a free throw during the game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Assembly Hall on January 10, 2016 in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

4. Attempt 3 or more threes per 36 minutes

Offensively, Anunoby’s jump shot will determine whether his value is “bystander” or “contributor.” Without much to lean on in terms of ball-handling or playmaking skills, the youngster will be limited to cuts, spot-ups, and transition opportunities for his first few seasons. He needs to sink open shots.

Don’t expect him to make many during his rookie year, though. Having shot 31.1 percent on 2.8 attempts per game in college, Anunoby’s jumper is a project. If he comes into the league shooting 35 percent from three on a high volume of attempts, it will be a surprise for everyone.

That said, it will be encouraging if Anunoby is at least confident with his jump shot. Taking open shots indicates comfort with the NBA three-point arc that can later translate to efficiency as a floor spacer.

Former Raptor P.J. Tucker, Dwane Casey’s comparison for Anunoby, is not a prolific shooter. Tucker does, however, take the shots presented to him. He ultimately attempted 3.5 threes per 36 minutes in Toronto, a number Anunoby shouldn’t be far away from.

Anunoby is a confident player, who – frankly – was visibly peeved that he fell to No. 23 in the draft. He’ll need to adapt to the NBA three-point line and NBA defenders, but it will be an encouraging sign if he shows the willingness to adapt in year one. Though 3.0 three-point attempts per 36 minutes is an arbitrary goal, it’s not unrealistic.

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