NBA.com analysis: Leonard’s arrival shifts Raptors’ defensive and late-clock outlook

League analysis positions Leonard as a direct solution to several Raptors weaknesses, notably late-clock efficiency and top-end defensive matchups.

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- NBA.com projects Leonard’s presence will push Toronto toward an elite defensive unit.
- Leonard’s 1-on-1 defense and playoff track record are cited as key complements to Scottie Barnes.
- Analysts note improvement against top offenses is a primary expected benefit.
- Raptors ranked poorly in the final six seconds of the shot clock; Leonard ranks highly in late-clock effective field-goal percentage.
- NBA.com sees Leonard as a go-to option late in the shot clock and in playoff settings.
- The move is portrayed as increasing Toronto’s offensive reliability in close situations.

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