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 Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) 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. /

Stanley Johnson

Nothing about what Stanley Johnson is doing this season is likely to show up in the stat sheet. In fact, the numbers are almost the same. Last year for Toronto he averaged 2.4 points, 1.5 rebounds and 0.8 assists and so far this season is averaging 2.9 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game. However, looking a little closer reveals a little more.

Johnson is picking his spots more effectively. He has earned the trust of his coach and it has turned into an increase from 6.0 minutes to 14.5 minutes per game. Johnson is shooting 44.8 percent from the field (37.3 last year) and 43.8 percent from distance (29.2 last year). He is locking down on defense and finally fitting into the mold that got him drafted as highly as he did years ago for the Detroit Pistons.

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Johnson is never going to be a star but that is okay. His ascension into the regular rotation is surprising enough as it is. Johnson appeared in only 25 games last season. This year he has only not played in two. For a former lottery pick who looked to be on his way out of the league, it is gratifying to see him grow into any role at this point. Contributing to wins is the cherry on top.

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