Introducing the EX-FILES, a unique exploration amid the NBA playoffs focusing on former Raptors and their current performances.
Early on, a handful of ex-Raptors have been making waves for their respective squads.
Jonas Valanciunas, a stalwart among Raptors centers, has emerged as the undisputed star of the NBA’s play-in tournament. The towering Lithuanian showcased his prowess with 19 points and 12 rebounds, propelling New Orleans to victory over Sacramento, clinching the No. 8 seed.
With this performance, Valanciunas surpassed his teammate Brandon Ingram, cementing his status as the all-time leader in play-in points. His dominance extends to rebounds as well, leading all players in this aspect. Despite a valiant effort in Game 1 against the Thunder, Valanciunas’s Pelicans fell short, highlighting the Thunder’s vulnerability in the frontcourt.
Shifting focus to another Canadian talent, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, whose clutch shot secured victory for the Thunder. However, Valanciunas’s commanding presence underscored the Thunder’s deficiency in size upfront, setting the stage for an imposing series against Chet Holmgren and company.
Valanciunas’s consistency dates back to his tenure in Toronto, though evolving trends in the NBA have limited his minutes. Nevertheless, his professionalism and team-first attitude continue to earn praise from teammates like Brandon Ingram.
Pascal Siakam, once Toronto’s linchpin before Scottie Barnes took the reins, now endeavors to lead the Indiana Pacers. Despite a stellar individual effort with 36 points and 13 rebounds, Siakam’s teammates failed to complement his performance, resulting in a disappointing loss. The Pacers’ acquisition of Siakam aimed to address their shortcomings, yet their dependence on him remains evident, especially with Milwaukee’s vulnerability in question due to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s health concerns.
Lastly, OG Anunoby returns to action for the New York Knicks, making his presence felt on both ends of the floor. His defensive prowess has been instrumental in the Knicks’ 2-0 series lead against Philadelphia, frustrating opponents like Kyle Lowry. While Anunoby awaits more offensive involvement, his contributions thus far indicate potential for greater impact as the playoffs progress.
Anunoby’s teammate, Precious Achiuwa, initially a solid rotation player in New York, finds himself sidelined with Mitchell Robinson’s return to full health, illustrating the ebb and flow of roster dynamics in playoff basketball.
