NBA 2018-19: 3 Takeaways from the Toronto Raptors Vs Golden State match up

#2 Defensive rebounds still a problem for the Raptors

Toronto Raptors v Atlanta Hawks

The Raptors gave up 17 offensive rebounds. The Raptors are ranked in the bottom third of the NBA in this category. Toronto does a lot well defensively, but this area, of their defensive game, has to improve.

The Raptors allowed three offensive rebounds apiece to Jordan Bell, Jonas Jerebko, Kevin Durant and six to Kevon Looney. The Raptors have decided not to play Serge Ibaka and Jonas Valanciunas together. However, that choice is costing this team completed defensive possessions.

For example, in the final moments, of the overtime, the Raptors allowed Golden State multiple offensive rebounds before time ran out. It wasn’t the only defensive possession that ended this way either.

It seems to happen most when Valanciunas is on the bench. Pascal Siakam was getting pushed around a bit in battles under the basket, by Kevin Durant, and Ibaka can only do so much. The Raptors will need to employ Greg Monroe more to assist with defensive rebounding or go back to employing Valanciunas and Ibaka together.