Toronto Raptors: Four surprising players one month into the season

TAMPA, FLORIDA - JANUARY 14: Chris Boucher #25 of the Toronto Raptors grabs a defensive rebound during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Amalie Arena on January 14, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. 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 Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

Aron Baynes

The drop off in the center rotation has been the biggest deterrent to the continued success of the Toronto Raptors this season. Alex Len has already been released but ultimately his poor play does not come as a tremendous surprise. Aron Baynes on the other hand joined the Raptors in Tampa with some level of expectations.

Last season for the Phoenix Suns Baynes looked like a potential free agent steal. He posted a line of 11.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Baynes boasted solid efficiency, shooting 48.0 percent from the field and an impressive 35.1 percent on 4.0 long-distance attempts per game. He was an important part of the Suns’ defense and helped them weather the storm while Deandre Ayton was suspended.

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The statistical deterioration from year to year is startling. Through 11 games Baynes is posting a line of 3.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 0.6 assists on shooting splits of .365/.182 with no free throw attempts to register a percentage. The efficiency disintegration is especially galling. Baynes is attempting far fewer shots but is just not connecting.

Baynes has just been bad. He has earned himself three DNPs and is quickly finding himself expendable. For a team in desperate need of size the fact that he is falling out of the rotation is telling.

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