The Raptors continue to squander simple transition opportunities and, against the Celtics in the team's most frustrating loss of the year, the problem was vividly on display. (william_lou)
who was streaking ahead for a guaranteed basket. But instead of making the simple play Achiuwa decided to take two extra dribbles which allowed Josh Richardson the opportunity to strip him. A few plays later, the Raptors had a three-on-one with Mykhailiuk running the break while Achiuwa was the obvious pass already waiting at the basket, but one missed pass leads to another and the Raptors missed another opportunity to cash in.
In just that short spell, he managed to airball a three, commit a double dribble under very little pressure and leave his feet on a pair of closeouts that both ended up being shot fakes.
It would really help if the Raptors reinforced the center position, but this is a position they have largely shunned since the championship. Look no further than their starting lineup, which does not feature a center by design. The advantage of that look is that the Raptors can switch almost every action and they have length elsewhere, but it was a massive problem against Williams, and will likely burn them again in their matchup against Andre Drummond.
Barnes will get there eventually, though, but it wouldn't be a bad idea for Anunoby to tackle centers should the Raptors stay with their centerless starting lineup. Barnes is very good as an on-ball defender, but asking him to defend pick-and-roll sequences means asking him to be in perfect position on most trips down, and you'll find a much higher success rate with Anunoby.
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