The Toronto Raptors received some good news on Sunday morning when it was announced that guard Patrick McCaw is nearing his return from a thumb injury. Raptors reporter Josh Lewenberg broke the news via Twitter.
Patrick McCaw was able to practice today. Nurse doesn't think he's quite game ready yet but is expecting him back soon.
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) April 14, 2019
McCaw played in 26 games for the Raptors in the regular season and only saw limited minutes with the team. He put up uninspiring averages of 2.7 points and 1.7 rebounds a game in 13.2 minutes.
While he might not have impressed many with these numbers, McCaw could still have an effect on the series. He is one of only three current Raptors to have played in the Finals, along with Danny Green and Kawhi Leonard. In fact, McCaw won two rings with the Golden State Warriors in the first two seasons of his young career.
The versatile swingman could also help shore up the Raptors perimeter defense. Toronto is coming off a tough loss in which Orlando Magic guard D.J. Augustin torched the team for 25 points on nine of thirteen shooting. Augustin ended the night by knocking down the game-winning three, shocking the entire NBA world.
McCaw could provide some fresh legs to chase around the Magic's perimeter players, as he did in the playoffs for Golden State. He is renowned for being able to track faster guards and bother shooters with his length.
While he might not provide much offense except for the occasional three, head coach Nick Nurse will be sure to employ McCaw for some defensive possessions as soon as he is ready to play again.
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