2019 NBA Playoffs: Toronto Raptors vs. Philadelphia 76ers preview

Key Question No. 3: How good is Pascal Siakam?

I could’ve opined about Embiid’s health here, but that seems to be a constant for every minute he’s on the court. Instead, let’s discuss the true X-factor of this series.

Pascal Siakam has been excellent this year. He was a monster when attacking in space, made just enough of his 3s to keep defenses honest, and attacked mismatches like a shark smelling blood. Additionally, his defense could earn him All-Defensive Team honors, as he guarded anyone and anyone (including switches) with ferocity.

Even for the Sixers’ optimal defensive quintet, Siakam is still a huge problem. Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry will typically be guarded by Ben Simmons and Jimmy Butler, but who’s stuck on Siakam? If Embiid is assigned to his fellow Cameroonian, that leaves Harris, Redick or a backup stuck on Marc Gasol. Flipping those matchups won’t be fun for Philly either, as Harris is only a good defender in specific spots.

If Siakam can take care of mismatches like he’s done all year, this series will be a lot easier than expected for Toronto. If the East’s 3-seed can contain him, this will be a very long series.