Days prior to the NBA trade deadline, the Toronto ball club has finally made a splash in the open market with a sensational acquisition that will help the organization immensely. The Raptors has added Serge Ibaka from Congo to its roster.
Judging from a number of meltdowns the team from the North has been experiencing lately, the recent transaction will definitely be a vital piece to the group's aspirations to compete heavily in the Eastern Conference. The trade is likely a valuable one not only on the floor but also on paper considering that they've given up lesser assets as the team sent Terrence Ross and a first round draft pick for 2017 to the Orlando Magic.
Heading into this weekend's NBA All-Star festivities, the Toronto Raptors has something to worry about as they dropped 10 of its last 14 games. It is not a secret that the gaping hole has been found at the power forward position.
Around this time, the only player manning the 4-position is Patrick Patterson. While the former number 14 pick of the Houston Rockets during the 2010 draft can hold his own, it is troubling to know that no other personnel is effective enough to step up especially now that he is injured.
With Serge Ibaka on the team, the Raptors can present a couple of options immediately. Aside from controlling the middle, the former Oklahoma City Thunder shot blocking ace will also be able to team up with center Jonas Valanciunas.
Judging from last year's disastrous series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the presence of Ibaka, who is shooting 39 percent from three this season, will be a huge upgrade especially where versatility is concerned. By bringing in one of Spain's national player, Raptors President Masai Ujiri may have addressed DeMar De Rozan's wish when the high-scoring guard voiced out the need for more help.
Although the outside shooting of Terence Ross is a big loss, giving newcomer Normal Powell more minutes will most likely address the concern for the moment. The former number 16 pick from California's Lincoln High has the skill set to make an immediate impact as manifested by his capability to score and his effectiveness to guard multiple positions.
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