Taking a Look at the Miami Heat’s Competition in the East

Toronto Raptors

Apr 24, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) dribbles the ball as Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) defends in the fourth quarter in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Wizards won 106-99, and lead the series 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

I’m not buying on the Toronto Raptors either, for the same reasons I didn’t like the Raptors last season; they’re terrible on defense. In defensive efficiency last season, Toronto ranked 23 among all 30 teams. They did add Demarre Carroll, but I don’t think one non-All-Star is enough to put this team over the top.

Actually, when looking at the advanced statistics, Carroll’s defensive abilities may be overhyped. According to 82games.com, the Hawks were 3.2 points worse defensively per 100 possessions with Carroll on the floor. But this stat isn’t an anomaly. According to ESPN, Carroll ranked 38 among all small forwards in defensive plus or minus.

If the Raptors can’t solve their defensive woes, they have little-to-no chance to make it far in the East.

Next: Bring on the Hawks