Toronto Raptors: 5 goals for Kyle Lowry in 2017-18

3. Avoid late season fadeout

Possibly the most notable criticism of Lowry in recent seasons has been the manner in which he has struggled toward the business end of the year. Just compare these numbers from the past two regular seasons:

2015-16:

• First 67 Games: 22.0 PPG, 6.4 APG, 5.0 RPG, 44.3 FG%, 39.7 3P%
• Last 10 Games: 16.0 PPG, 6.3 APG, 3.3 RPG, 32.1 FG%, 32.9 3P%

2016-17:

• First 49 Games: 23.3 PPG, 6.9 APG, 4.7 RPG, 47.6 FG %, 42.7 3P%
• Last 11 Games: 18.5 PPG, 7.0 APG, 5.2 RPG, 41.0 FG%, 34.8 3P%

Clearly, the most notable drop-off in Lowry’s performance has been the serious dip in shooting percentages.

Furthermore, this has extended into the postseason over the last two seasons:

• 2015-16: 19.1 PPG, 6.0 APG, 4.7 RPG, 39.7 FG%, 30.4 3P%
• 2016-17: 15.8 PPG, 5.9 APG, 3.1 RPG, 46.2 FG%, 34.2 3P%

As the heart and soul of the team, the Raptors irrefutably will need far better performances from their floor leader in the home stretch this season. With the loss of some experienced heads in Patrick Patterson and DeMarre Carroll this offseason, Lowry leading from the front is going to be even more crucial for the Raptors in 2018.