The Raptors should retain Kelly Olynyk as a key player for sealing games after his outstanding showing against the Hawks.
The Toronto Raptors showcased their rejuvenation post-All-Star break with a commanding win over Brooklyn followed by another strong performance against Atlanta, despite the challenge of playing on consecutive nights. Immanuel Quickley replicated his impressive 24-point game, sinking six three-pointers to tie a season-high. Scottie Barnes displayed his typical versatility with a stat line of 20 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds, while Gradey Dick contributed a solid 18 points off the bench.
However, the spotlight belonged to Kelly Olynyk, the recent acquisition who played a pivotal role in securing the win for Toronto. Despite initial skepticism surrounding Toronto’s decision to acquire him from the Utah Jazz in a trade involving Kira Lewis Jr., Otto Porter Jr., and a late 2024 first-round pick, Olynyk’s impact has silenced doubters and impressed the Raptors’ front office.
Olynyk’s versatility as a big man has quickly made him a valuable asset for Toronto, filling a void in the team’s frontcourt depth since the departures of Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol. Despite coming off the bench, Olynyk has demonstrated starter-level performance, potentially outshining the higher-priced Jakob Poeltl, who was reacquired by Toronto in the previous year’s trade deadline.
In the crucial moments of the game against Atlanta, Olynyk’s clutch plays, including a Dirk Nowitzki-esque turnaround jumper and a pivotal block on Jalen Johnson, sealed the victory for Toronto. His basketball IQ and leadership qualities make him an invaluable asset in closing out games, a role that coach Darko Rajaković should continue to entrust him with.
Furthermore, Olynyk’s expressed desire to retire as a Raptor adds an additional layer of commitment and loyalty to his contributions on the court.
