Before commencing a six-game journey to the west that concludes on Friday in Utah, the Raptors assigned rookie Gradey Dick to their G League affiliate as part of a specialized program, according to Coach Darko Rajakovic.
Although specific details regarding the team’s expectations for the 20-year-old in terms of body weight and conditioning were not disclosed, Dick viewed it as another opportunity to enhance his skills.So far, Dick has experienced a commendable performance, averaging 15.1 points and playing for 34 minutes in three games with the 905.
This represents a significant increase in playing time since he joined Toronto, and he is pleased to engage in activities more aligned with his accustomed routine.Before embarking on a six-game journey to the west that concludes on Friday in Utah, the Raptors opted to send rookie Gradey Dick on assignment to their G League affiliate, as part of what Coach Darko Rajakovic referred to as a “special program.
“Details regarding the team’s expectations for the 20-year-old in terms of body weight and conditioning were not provided. Nevertheless, Dick perceives this as another opportunity to enhance his skills.Thus far, Dick has enjoyed a respectable performance, averaging 15.1 points and playing for 34 minutes in three games with the 905.
This represents a significant increase in playing time since he joined Toronto, and he expresses contentment in engaging in activities more aligned with his accustomed routine.Reflecting on the experience, Dick remarked, “It’s been nothing but the best.” However, he acknowledges the need for adjustment at this level, emphasizing the importance of building team chemistry quickly.Selected 13th in the last summer’s draft, the Raptors chose Dick in part due to his impressive three-point shooting at the University of Kansas, where he achieved a 40.3% success rate.
However, his performance in the NBA has seen a dip, shooting only 25% from long range in limited playing time, and a mere 20% with the 905.Recognizing the need for improvement to secure a spot in the Raptors’ rotation, Dick is focused on refining his game.Before embarking on a six-game journey to the west, concluding on Friday in Utah, the Raptors assigned rookie Gradey Dick to their G League affiliate as part of what Coach Darko Rajakovic termed a “special program.No specific details were provided about the team’s expectations for the 20-year-old in terms of body weight and conditioning.
Nevertheless, Dick views this as an additional opportunity for personal improvement.Dick has enjoyed a commendable run so far, averaging 15.1 points and playing for 34 minutes in three games with the 905. This marks a significant increase in playing time since his arrival in Toronto, and he expresses contentment in engaging in activities more aligned with his accustomed routine.
Reflecting on the experience, Dick remarked, “It’s been nothing but the best.” Despite sitting out a recent game due to a minor forearm contusion, he emphasizes the importance of adapting to team chemistry at this level, acknowledging the differences from college basketball.Drafted 13th last summer for his three-point shooting prowess, Dick showcased a 40.3% success rate at the University of Kansas.
However, his NBA performance has seen a decline, shooting only 25% from long range in limited playing time, and a mere 20% with the 905.Recognizing the need for improvement to secure a spot in the Raptors’ rotation, Dick is focused on refining his game.
He stresses the importance of maintaining consistency and developing skills every day.The Raptors recalled Dick from the G League, and he was set to rejoin the team in Utah. Acknowledging the back-and-forth between the two sides as a reality, Dick remains determined to make the most of the opportunities, emphasizing preparation and a willingness to follow the coach’s guidance.
