The Toronto Raptors need DeMar DeRozan back. It’s been obvious in the past 4 games that they have lost. Down the stretch, the Raptors haven’t had the offensive power to push the lead to their favor. DeMar DeRozan was there leading scorer and he is effectively and offensive threat. The Charlotte Hornets tore the Toronto Raptors apart on the defensive end, and won the game 103-95. This is the 4th loss in the row for the Toronto Raptors (which hasn’t happened in 2 years) and the 4th straight win for the Charlotte Hornets. Gerald Henderson had 31 points and Kemba Walker had 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists. Kyle Lowry had 24 points and Lou Williams had 15 points but the Toronto Raptors couldn’t handle the Hornets defensively.
Analysis: Ironically, even thought DeMar DeRozan is the Raptors number 1 offensive threat, his absence has actually hindered the Raptors defense. They have dropped significantly in defensive ranking and efficiency. DeRozan claims that his injury is fully healed and he is ready to heal but he doesn’t want to rush it, he also mentioned that he will be returning within this weeks games against Boston, Detroit or Atlanta. The Toronto Raptors held on long enough without their all-star, and Kyle Lowry proved that he can lead a team by himself, but they need him back in order to get back to their dominant form, and the emphasis here is on defense.
If you think about it, the only reason the Toronto Raptors were in the top 10 in both offensive and defensive efficiency is mainly due to DeMar DeRozan. He draws immediate attention on the offensive end, leaving other teammates open or more free on the offensive end. On the defensive end, he holds his own against the guards and forwards of this league, and has size that can match up much better then Greivis Vasquez or Lou Williams who have substituted for DeMar in his absence.
Should Raptors fans be worried? It’s a very long season, and the especially in a lacking Eastern Conference, you can afford to lose 4 games in a row, without jumping out of a playoff spot. The Raptors still hold the 3rd best record in the East, and I don’t see them being capable of dropping down lower then 5th in the East. They also have one of the easier schedules in the NBA in 2015. With a little bit of defensive effort, and the re-emergence of DeMar DeRozan, the Raptors should be fine. #WeTheNorth.
