The Toronto Raptors have had a season as unpredictable as a Kardashian's love life. They've shown flashes of brilliance, but they've also been about as consistent as a weather forecast in Florida. It's hard to tell if they're going to rain threes or throw up bricks.
One bright spot for the Raptors has been their young core. Pascal Siakam and Fred VanVleet have been playing like they're trying to earn a spot on the Avengers team. Siakam's been more dominant than a toddler in a toy store, averaging 25.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. VanVleet's been more impressive than a bald eagle soaring through the Grand Canyon, averaging 19.7 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game.
But despite the efforts of their dynamic duo, the Raptors have struggled to find consistent production from their centre position. Enter Jakob Poeltl, a.k.a. the Austrian Hammer, a.k.a. the Spurs center that Toronto acquired in exchange for Khem Birch, a protected 2024 first-round draft pick and two future second-round picks. The first-round pick is top-six protected in 2024 and the second round picks are unprotected in 2023 and 2025.
Poeltl is known for his strong defense, efficient scoring, and an accent that sounds like he's ordering schnitzel and beer at a Bavarian pub. He's been a valuable addition to the Raptors, averaging 14.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game since joining the team.
Poeltl has brought some much-needed energy to the Raptors' frontcourt, which has been about as lively as a nursing home at 9 PM. He's finishing around the rim like he's trying to slam a pint of Oktoberfest beer and scoring in the pick-and-roll like he's trying to grab a wurst from a sizzling grill.
The Raptors' season has been as unpredictable as a squirrel on a freeway, but with the addition of Poeltl, they've got a reason to be optimistic. If Siakam, VanVleet, and Poeltl can continue to play at a high level, the Raptors could make a push for the playoffs and give their fans a reason to celebrate like they're at Oktoberfest.
So, let's raise a stein of beer to the Raptors and their newest addition, Jakob Poeltl. Prost!