Knicks Preview: Keys to Defeating Toronto Raptors

Nov 3, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) dribbles the ball past Dallas Mavericks guard

(34) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Raptors defeat the Mavericks 102-91. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

2. Limit Penetration

The Toronto Raptors are a team with more question marks than most would expect of a burgeoning perennial postseason team. If there’s one thing that’s clear, however, it’s that Toronto excels at creating penetration.

That spells trouble against the New York Knicks’ aging backcourt of Jose Calderon and Sasha Vujacic.

According to NBA.com, Toronto is No. 5 in the Association in points created via cuts. Although their conversion rate is surprisingly low, the Raptors are No. 9 in frequency of plays run off of screens.

Throw in the fact that Toronto is No. 4 in the NBA in free throw attempts per game and it’s clear that it will look to attack the basket.

DeMar DeRozan is an All-Star based almost entirely on the fact that he can explosively attack the rack. A slimmed down Kyle Lowry is significantly quicker than he was in 2014-15—a scary truth considering how quick he already was—and displays similar capabilities.

If New York isn’t careful, Toronto’s vaunted backcourt will tear it to pieces.

Next: Encore