Raptors’ number-one defense is only scratching the surface after four games

Through four games, the Toronto Raptors hold the NBA's best defensive rating at 97.9, leading the second-place Minnesota Timberwolves at 102.5. Despite an opening stretch that included an 117-94 defeat against Minnesota, Toronto secured victories against the Chicago Bulls, Orlando Magic, and Washington Wizards while keeping opponents' scoring relatively low.

Writer Elaine Blum argues that Toronto's defense is only scratching the surface, particularly with Kawhi Leonard limited to 52 total minutes before suffering a knee injury. However, the writer notes that upcoming matchups against high-powered offenses like the Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, and Boston Celtics will provide much tougher tests.