The Influence of International Game in the NBA: Raptors Embrace Ball Movement for 2023-24 Season
By The Canadian Press
The influence of the international game in the NBA is no secret, and it’s nothing new. The recent NBA Finals between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat showcased the effectiveness of a more team-oriented style of play, with both teams prioritizing ball movement over isolation plays.
Darko Rajakovic, head coach of the Toronto Raptors and a Serbian himself, aims to implement a similar style of play for the 2023-24 season. Rajakovic emphasized the growing importance of passing in the game, highlighting the championship-winning Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat as examples.
Rajakovic stated, “Basketball is evolving to prioritize interchangeable pieces and multiple players contributing. It’s a challenge to scout and play against teams that embrace this style of play, but we want to be one of those teams.”
After a disappointing 41-41 season and missing the playoffs for the second time in three years, the Raptors underwent changes in their roster and coaching staff. Former Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse was let go in April, and Rajakovic was brought in to lead a shift in culture and playing style.
The Raptors struggled with consistency, ranking 23rd in assists per game and 28th in three-point percentage in the NBA. The team also heavily relied on multiple starters, resulting in fatigue and limited depth.
With the departure of point guard Fred VanVleet, the Raptors acquired promising guard-forward Gradey Dick in the draft and signed experienced point guard Dennis Schroder. Dick’s shooting ability and Schroder’s championship-winning experience will provide a boost to the team.
Rajakovic has a clear vision for utilizing the different skillsets of the players and aims to establish a nine to ten-man rotation for increased contributions. The team will focus on a high-post offense and emphasize ball movement, similar to the Denver Nuggets and their star player, Nikola Jokic.
Centre Jakob Poeltl expressed excitement about the new style of play, stating, “It’s going to take some time getting used to, but I think we had elements of that in the past. It’s going to be a bigger focus now.”
The Raptors will prioritize off-ball movement, finding players cutting to the basket or open at the three-point line. The success of this system relies on the versatility of the players on the court.
Scottie Barnes, a third-year forward, will have an increased role in ball handling, as Rajakovic plans to utilize his skills. The team’s goal is to minimize dribbling and focus on playing through different actions.
Pascal Siakam, a two-time all-NBA forward, will also play a crucial role. Rajakovic emphasized the importance of providing Siakam with good passing options when he faces double teams.
Overall, the Raptors are determined to adopt a more team-oriented style of play for the 2023-24 season, taking inspiration from successful international teams and embracing ball movement as a key strategy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Oct. 7, 2023.
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