Toronto Raptors center Marc Gasol is glad to be in the playoffs once again after missing the postseason in 2018 with the punting Memphis Grizzlies.
It has been a long road for the 7-foot-1 center, who could have missed extending his 2018-19 campaign if it weren't for the trade that ultimately allowed him to take part in it, according to Ryan Wolstat of the Toronto Sun.
Gasol said playoff basketball is what players play for, and his impact is already starting to be felt on his new team.
The Spanish center hasn't logged heavy minutes since coming to Toronto, but he has managed to make do with outstanding efficiency, recently shooting 50% from the field or better in seven of his last eight contests.
Gasol had a modest nine points in a Game 2 win over the Orlando Magic, but he connected on 3-of-5 shots in the game, including a sharp 3-of-4 from beyond the arc. His three rebounds, five assists and four steals made him equally valuable to this chimera-like team that can dominate with its outside shooting as well as its deft passing game with one of the best pivot men in the game.
Unlike the Grizzlies, the Raptors won't need Gasol to do a lot of heavy lifting in the postseason, but will instead benefit from the well-versed arsenal of skills that have made him such a quality center over the years. Toronto added a proven winner before the trade deadline and is just starting to reap the benefits of such a diverse presence on the court.
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