Toronto Raptors: Player grades based off preseason expectations
By Zach Wilson
Serge Ibaka: A
After playing the role of a starter for the entirety of his career, Serge Ibaka had to get used to coming off the bench permanently after the Raptors acquired Marc Gasol at the deadline.
He transitioned into the role flawlessly, and there wasn’t a single problem that arose from Ibaka or his camp. The belief was that Ibaka wouldn’t have a problem coming off the bench for a title team, but there was skepticism surrounding how he would take it heading into a contract year, with a much smaller chance at a championship.
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Well, the answer was flawless, yet again. In fact, Serge is having the best season of his career, at least offensively. Part of this is due to the fact of Gasol missing nearly 30 games this season, which has slotted Ibaka into the starting lineup for about half of the year.
Ibaka is posting career averages in points, assists, steals and 3-point percentage. Not to mention his second-highest career averages in rebounds, and effective field goal percentage.
The Ibaka – Lowry pick and roll, or pick and pop has done wonders for the Raptors this season and is one of their go-to offensive actions.
Ibaka has played at such a high level, that even at age 30, it seems he has earned himself another solid contract. He’s a guy who wants to stay in Toronto for a long time, and a guy who Raptors fans want in Toronto as well.