Toronto Raptors: How will Greg Monroe fit in next year?

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 11: Greg Monroe #55 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the national anthem before a game against the Brooklyn Nets at TD Garden on April 11, 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

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How he affects the the current roster

The addition of Greg Monroe to the rotation gives the Toronto Raptors an added sense of balance. They acquired guard Danny Green in their trade for Kawhi Leonard, but they also lost young center Jakob Poeltl. The Raptors will feel the loss of Poeltl’s paint protection, but the hope is a veteran like Greg Monroe can soften the blow.

Without Monroe, there was a lack of bulk on the interior. Lucas Nogueira was allowed to test the free agent market this past off season as well, and is still searching for a new home. Monroe’s addition gives them a solid veteran to round out their rotation.

Monroe isn’t a dominant defensive presence, which doesn’t bode well for a team that ranked sixth in points allowed per game. He’ll be solid for the Raptors in spurts, especially in the pick-and-roll game, but he’ll need to turn things up defensively if he hopes to get a look at productive playing time.

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