Immanuel Quickley targets resurgence to ease critics as Raptors thrive
Immanuel Quickley sets sights on rejuvenation
Toronto Raptors point guard Immanuel Quickley is navigating a challenging start to the season. However, amid personal struggles, the Raptors are experiencing a surge, currently riding a three-game winning streak. This positive development highlights the team’s resilience even as Quickley works through his difficulties.
In a recent discussion about his shooting woes, particularly from beyond the arc, Quickley expressed his unwavering confidence. “I’m always confident, whether the ball is going in or not. I’m going to keep shooting. The best shooters keep shooting,” he affirmed. His commitment to the team remains paramount, as he emphasized the importance of staying focused and contributing to the collective effort. “But yes, definitely being aggressive is the most important thing,” Quickley added.
Finding ways to contribute despite challenges
In the Raptors’ latest victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, Quickley faced hurdles on the offensive end, connecting on only 5 of 15 attempts from the field. Nonetheless, he showcased his versatility by securing six rebounds and dishing out seven assists, proving he can still impact the game in other meaningful ways. “I try not to look at it as a rough patch. Everybody thinks it’s a rough patch, but it’s all in how you look at it, perspective,” Quickley noted. He remains optimistic, focusing on improvement both in practice and game film. “At the end of the season, I know I’m going to be fine. The work I put in, the trust I have in God, I believe,” Quickley remarked.
Raptors’ expectations and coaching support
As Quickley embarks on his second season of a five-year, $175 million contract, the Raptors are eager for him to elevate his performance. Head coach Darko Rajakovic is aware of the challenges Quickley faces and is committed to finding effective strategies to unlock his potential. “I mean, first of all, there is no magic wand,” Rajakovic stated. “He’s not playing his best basketball right now. And that’s fine. That’s why he has his teammates to help him, and not everybody can carry it over an 82-game-long season and be perfect.”
Rajakovic encourages a steady approach, underscoring the need for Quickley to take things one day at a time and focus on incremental improvements. “What I can tell you is that he’s putting a lot of work in, a lot of effort in. He cares so much, and that’s why it’s frustrating for him because he’s going through this rough time, but it’s completely fine,” the coach added.
With roughly 10 percent of the season completed, the Raptors remain confident that Quickley will find his rhythm before the pressure mounts to reassess his role as the starting point guard. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Quickley as he strives to silence the critics and help propel the Raptors further in the standings.
