NBA Playoffs 2017: 5 keys to Raptors vs. Bucks matchup

Mar 4, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives for the basket against Toronto Raptors forward P.J. Tucker (2) in the fourth quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. The Bucks beat the Raptors 101-94. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports /

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Feb 24, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward P.J. Tucker (2) reacts after securing a rebound inside the final minute of play against the Boston Celtics at Air Canada Centre. The Raptors beat the Celtics 107-97. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Toronto’s new two-some

With DeMarre Carroll struggling to regain his old form and a turnstile of inadequacy at the power forward position, Masai Ujiri went out at the deadline and addressed his team’s needs. And he did well, shipping off some spare parts and bringing back the Platonic ideal of the third option in Serge Ibaka, along with P.J. Tucker, the human race’s version of an angry bulldog.

And of course, with two high-usage guards, it was also important to take on guys that don’t need the ball in their hands to be effective. Ujiri’s additions have fit in seamlessly, bolstering the defense and giving the offense catch-and-shoot options.

Since acquiring Ibaka and Tucker, the Raptors have the second-best record in the league, while posting the fourth-highest defensive rating. More importantly, the Raptors now employ a longer list of guys they can lean on in crunch time.

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