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Trayce Jackson-Davis Gives Raptors a Reason to Rethink Their Center Rotation
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- Trayce Jackson-Davis Gives Raptors a Reason to Rethink Their Center Rotation
(John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images)
Trayce Jackson-Davis spent much of the Toronto Raptors ' opening stretch waiting for an opportunity to prove he could contribute in a larger role. Wednesday's win over the Orlando Magic gave him that chance, and head coach Darko Rajakovic made it clear afterward that the big man has been doing the work to earn more minutes.
Jackson-Davis finished with six points, 11 rebounds, two assists and two blocks in 20 minutes during Toronto's 129-99 victory. His playing time was partly a product of Jakob Poeltl's foul trouble, but the reserve center made the most of the opening, giving the Raptors a reliable presence on the glass while helping protect their lead.
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Rajakovic said Thursday that Jackson-Davis' performance reflected the progress he had made over the summer, particularly with his conditioning and energy. The coach also pointed to the importance of staying prepared despite uncertainty about when opportunities might come.
"He had a great summer," Rajakovic told reporters Thursday, via Sportsnet . "He really improved conditioning. He really improved his motor and energy."
For Jackson-Davis, the challenge now is turning a strong showing into a more consistent place in Toronto's rotation. Rajakovic did not promise a specific increase in playing time, but he indicated that the coaching staff is open to finding more opportunities for players who are ready to contribute.
"Everything is on the table," Rajakovic said, explaining that the priority is finding the right moments, minutes and rotations to get the most out of the roster.
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That flexibility could become increasingly important as Toronto sorts out its options at center. Poeltl played just 10 minutes against Orlando before foul trouble kept him off the floor, finishing with two points and two rebounds. Collin Murray-Boyles also struggled to stay on the floor, recording five fouls in just over 14 minutes.
Jackson-Davis, meanwhile, played a season-high 20 minutes and gave Toronto production it needed from the position. His 11 rebounds led the team, while his two blocks marked a season high. Sports Illustrated's Rocco Moschella also highlighted the opportunity Jackson-Davis has to provide Rajakovic with another option in the paint, particularly when Toronto needs more mobility and shot-contesting ability.
There is still a distinction between earning additional minutes and taking over the starting job. Poeltl brings experience as a screener and passer, qualities that remain valuable to Toronto's offense. One performance against Orlando does not settle the center rotation, either.
But Jackson-Davis has given the Raptors something to consider as they look for ways to get more from the position. His production came when the team needed it, and Rajakovic's comments suggest the coaching staff has noticed the preparation behind it.
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The next step is sustaining that impact when the rotation returns to normal. If Jackson-Davis continues to make himself useful in limited opportunities, Toronto may have a harder time keeping him in the same reserve role.
