May 9, 2016
Thoughts on Raptors/Heat ahead of Game 4
TSN basketball analyst Jack Armstrong checks in with thoughts on the Toronto Raptors and Miami Heat ahead of Game 4 where both team's big men are hobbled.
TSN basketball analyst Jack Armstrong checks in with thoughts on the Toronto Raptors and Miami Heat ahead of Game 4 where both team's big men are hobbled.
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1. JONAS VALANCIUNAS: What a shame. The young man was coming into his own and taking the next step career-wise and now, another setback for him. I was really impressed with how he performed in the 10 playoff games prior to his injury. At age 24, major progress is starting to happen for him.
2. SMALL BALL: Hassan Whiteside is day to day for the Heat and JV is out for Raptors. Toronto was 16-6 without JV this year, while Miami was 6-3 without Whiteside. Which perimeter guys will take it to next level in their absences? How good do the complimentary bigs play to support them? Your guess is as good as mine. The answer will likely define the rest of the series and determine a winner.
3. BISMACK BIYOMBO: Biyombo has been quiet this series and the team will now need him to awaken to give the Raptors a fighting chance. His rebounding, screening, shot-blocking and lane finishes will be sorely needed. He's going to have to be an impact guy in those areas and this will be a great opportunity for him.
4. UDONIS HASLEM: The guy is a true pro. Haslem defends, rebounds, passes it and, overall, brings a smart competitive edge to the court. He's a much better screen-and-roll defender than Whiteside due to his mobility. He'll be an important element for Heat along with Josh McRoberts and Amare Stoudemire.
5. RAPS BENCH: They're down in numbers now and your team depth gets challenged more than ever with Valanciunas out. This has been a solid strength of this team this season. Can they give this team a spark? Games are every other day and fatigue is a definite factor now. Who fights through it and produces determines lots.