Toronto Raptors biggest advantages entering the NBA playoffs

2. Raptors have the number one NBA bubble defense

But for how good their shooting is, the Raptors half-court offense isn’t exactly one of their bigger strengths. This is because their scheming and activity level on defense leads to tons of points off turnovers and in transition. The Raptors averaged 19.5 points off of turnovers this season, the second-highest in the NBA. With an impressive 8.8 steals per game, the Raptors make the most of them. They also got 18.8 of their points per game on the fast break.

In the bubble, the Raptors were the number one team defensively. Marc Gasol’s rim-protecting has been on display, and he’s settled into the role of the defensive anchor while taking a backseat on offense. In fact, Toronto’s defensive rating was a jaw-dropping 91.8 with Gasol on the floor in the bubble. In addition, OG Anunoby looks like an all-NBA defense candidate for years to come and can guard any position.

In terms of isolation defense, the Raptors are about as good as it comes. They only trail the Milwaukee Bucks in isolation defense percentile. They defend the post as well as any team as well and are a sound defensive rebounding team.

They switch on screens seamlessly, but can also switch it up with a surprise trap or zone. Nick Nurse is one of the most creative coaches when it comes to drawing up a new defense. They’re always aggressive trying to swipe the ball and have numerous players who can guard multiple positions. And Siakam, Anunoby, and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson are some of the most versatile defenders in the league. Scoring on the Raptors won’t be easy for anybody.