Toronto Raptors are Struggling Without Leonard

When the Toronto Raptors brought Kawhi Leonard back, they knew the oft-injured star would likely miss games. However, he left after only two games, and now the Raptors are struggling without Leonard in the lineup.

Good Start

Leonard’s second stint got off to a good start in Toronto with the team winning their first two games. However, he left with a knee injury, and since he's been out, the team has lost three of four games, including two in a row. The team made the playoffs last season, led by the talented young trio of RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes, and Immanuel Quickley, who are all averaging over 17 ppg.

Leonard will be out for multiple weeks, and the team needs to learn to win without their star to avoid falling down the standings in the Eastern Conference.

Defensive Issues 

The Raptors have been legit, for the most part, in scoring, but the issue has been on the defensive side of the floor. Even without Leonard last season, the team ranked a respectable  ninth in the league in defensive scoring. In their two straight losses to the Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers, they allowed the Magic to shoot 53% from the field and 53% from the 3-point range, and the Lakers to shoot 54% and 49% from long range.

In Toronto’s three losses, they allowed their opponents to shoot at least 53% from the field, while in the three wins they held opponents to under 42% shooting. The team has been inconsistent on the defensive end of the floor, and they played good D last season without Leonard and need to start doing that again with their star in street clothes.

A Good Time to Get Back on Track 

While all on the road, the next three games are a good time for the Raptors to get back on track before a tough stretch. In their next three games, they face the Clippers, Nuggets, and Bucks, a combined 5-11, before a tough five-game stretch that starts with the, now, undefeated Grizzlies, then the Celtics, LeBron and the hot 76ers, and two games against the defending champion Knicks.

Silver Lining 

If there is any silver lining for Toronto, it is that Leonard’s knee injury is not serious and will not require surgery. He is expected to be back in 3-4 weeks, so the 3-3 Raptors have to tread water in the East until he returns. Still, with his history, the team has to learn to win without him, as he will likely miss more time at some point this season.