It's clear that the Toronto Raptors have major issues in the frontcourt, which is why they have been linked as a potential landing spot for Cleveland Cavaliers big man Andre Drummond. In the meantime, the Raptors have been rocking the small ball as they continue to climb up the East standings after a slow start to the 2020-21 season. It's hard to think if playing small could be sustainable throughout the season, but Raptors guard Fred VanVleet kept it real, saying they don't really have much of a choice.
Via Josh Lewenberg of TSN Sports:
Fred VanVleet, asked if the small lineup is sustainable: "It better be. We don't have a choice at this point."
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) February 17, 2021
That's where Andre Drummond comes in, right?
With Aron Baynes as their only true center, Pascal Siakam and Chris Boucher, both of whom are natural fours, continue to log major minutes at the five. Nonetheless, the Raptors have found success with the small ball. After starting out the season 2-8, Toronto has climbed to the seventh seed in the East with a 13-15 record.
The addition of Andre Drummond, who is currently being shopped by the Cavaliers, would immediately address Toronto's problems at center. His presence would give them someone to handle teams that have elite big men, such as the Philadelphia 76ers and the Miami Heat.
Though they are lengthy and versatile, Siakam and Boucher just won't cut it, especially if they face someone like Embiid or even an Adebayo in the postseason. Aron Baynes won't be able to log heavy minutes at that position, and he also has his shortcomings on the defensive end.
Though Drummond won't be the perfect solution, he still carries a lot of value as someone who can end defensive possessions with his elite rebounding.
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