Is Immanuel Quickley's slow start for the Toronto Raptors a cause for concern? Despite a less-than-stellar beginning to the season, head coach Darko Rajakovic remains unruffled. Let's dive in.
Through the first seven games, point guard Immanuel Quickley, aged 26, is averaging 12.7 points and 6.3 assists per game. However, his shooting percentages are a bit of a worry, with just over 39% from the field and under 28% from beyond the three-point line.
But here's where it gets interesting: Coach Rajakovic isn't panicking. He recognizes Quickley's potential and is focused on building his confidence. "We all know what kind of player he is," Rajakovic stated, emphasizing the need to take it one game at a time. He added, "I need to do a better job of building his confidence and making sure he knows how important he is. I think he’s going to be just fine.”
While Quickley's stats might raise eyebrows, it's essential to remember that it's still early in the season. The Raptors' offense, overall, seems to be finding its rhythm. As Rajaković pointed out, the team has shown flashes of offensive aggression and scoring in transition. They're also excelling in ball-sharing, ranking second in the league in that category.
And this is the part most people miss: The team is finding success even with Quickley's struggles. Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, and RJ Barrett have stepped up, providing alternative scoring options. The Raptors are proving they can win even when key players aren't at their best.
Ultimately, the Raptors will want Quickley to improve his efficiency. But for now, they're demonstrating their ability to adapt and win. The team is set to face Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks at home. The game is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena, and fans can watch on TSN Sports or stream it on NBA League Pass.
What do you think? Are you concerned about Quickley's slow start, or do you share Coach Rajakovic's optimism? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
