Raptors’ Bench Shines with Stellar Contributions from Gradey Dick and Sandro Mamukelashvili
The Toronto Raptors have hit the ground running this season, establishing themselves with one of the league’s most impressive records. While their starting five has certainly played a role in this strong start, it’s the contributions from their bench that are elevating the team to new heights.
Depth is the Key
The Raptors’ depth has emerged as a surprising strength. Despite having five high-profile and well-compensated players in their starting lineup, the unit has managed to outscore opponents by a mere five points per 100 possessions—a statistic that, while decent, doesn’t quite capture the team’s overall potential. As Zach Kram pointed out, the blend of skill sets among the starters hasn’t translated into the ideal synergy.
Yet, the Raptors find themselves thriving when their second unit takes the floor. Coach Darko Rajakovic has adeptly mixed and matched lineups, ensuring that there’s a balance on both ends of the court. Statistically, the numbers speak volumes: among the 27 Raptors duos who have logged at least 100 minutes together, the top ten partnerships prominently feature either Gradey Dick or Sandro Mamukelashvili. In contrast, the more recognizable pairings, such as Brandon Ingram with Scottie Barnes and Ingram with RJ Barrett, have actually struggled, being outscored this season.
Bench Contributions Take Center Stage
Gradey Dick and Sandro Mamukelashvili have emerged as the standout contributors off the bench, but they are not alone in their impact. Jamal Shead has also made significant contributions with a staggering assist-to-turnover ratio. Over the past three games, he has recorded an astounding 23 assists against just one turnover, showcasing his playmaking prowess.
The Raptors’ bench is not just a supporting cast; they are proving essential to the team’s success. With each game, Dick, Mamukelashvili, and Shead are cementing their roles, transforming the narrative around the team’s depth from a mere footnote to a key storyline.
As the Raptors continue their campaign, the performances from their bench will be a focal point to watch, as they strive to maintain their momentum and capitalize on their early-season success.
