NBA: Underperformers and overachievers for Week 23

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Underperformer: Serge Ibaka, Toronto Raptors

The Toronto Raptors are currently first in the Eastern Conference standings at 53-19, which is all fine and good. Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan are playing on another level and keeping pace. If ever they needed a player to step up and give them a chance in the playoffs, it’s Serge Ibaka.

Ibaka was traded to the Raptors from the Orlando Magic back at last season’s NBA Trade Deadline. When he became a free agent this past offseason, he chose to stay in Toronto on a three-year, $64 million deal.

This season, Ibaka is averaging 12.5 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. It is his lowest scoring average since the 2015-16 season, back when he was a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

With Toronto looking to build momentum heading into the playoffs, it’s paramount that Ibaka plays well. Against the Cavaliers on Wednesday night, Ibaka had just six points and four rebounds in 23 minutes of play. He went 2-for-8 from the floor and 0-for-4 from 3-point land on a night that saw LeBron James and Cleveland steal the show.

Going forward, Toronto will need to find a way to get him to play at a high level. Ibaka has six double-doubles and seven 20-point performances under his belt this season.