Toronto will be without some big pieces in this one. Gary Trent is doubtful with an illness, and Scottie Barnes is doubtful with a sprained ankle. This will create some interesting opportunities for other Toronto guys, as Nick Nurse does not go deep into his rotations. I believe he will just lean heavier on his key pieces: Siakam, VanVleet, and Anunoby. I find Anunoby the most interesting.
OG did not have the strongest finish to the season as he has only averaged 13 a game over the last 10. Barnes and Trent played in those games though, so his 16.5 line is calling my name. Despite the late season regression, he still averaged 17.2 on the year. He was also a slightly better scorer on the road with a 17.4 points per game average. In 2 games vs the Sixers this season, he dropped 20 points in both. I have not even gotten to the best part. OG averaged 26 points per game without Scottie Barnes this season in 6 games. His scoring totals in those 6 were: 36, 21, 26, 25, 24, 24.
OG is also in a solid position against Philly. While they have been a strong defense all season, they have struggled vs small forwards lately. They have allowed the 3rd most points to SF over the last 30 days. With their recent defensive struggles against SF and OG’s numbers without Barnes, I love this as a ladder spot for Anunoby.
