TORONTO — Jamal Shead is making the most of a larger role with the injury-depleted Raptors, recording his second consecutive double-double as Toronto continues to shuffle its starting lineup.

The 24-year-old point guard had 20 points and 11 assists in Monday’s 118–102 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Toronto fell to 5–5 after using its sixth different starting lineup in 10 games, according to reporting by John Chidley-Hill of The Canadian Press, published by Global News.

“A lot of guys wait for those opportunities and are just ready to play,” Shead said after the loss. “Obviously, those are really important pieces for us and really important guys to our team.

“But when they’re out, it’s just next man up.”

Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley have missed consecutive games, while Collin Murray-Boyles sat out Monday with an illness. Kawhi Leonard, who has played twice this season, will remain out for at least another week while reconditioning following treatment for swelling in his left knee, the team announced Tuesday.

Shead’s increased production comes after a slow scoring start. He entered Monday averaging six points per game on 36.7 per cent shooting; his performance against Memphis raised his scoring average to 7.4 points.

A developing pick-and-roll partnership with Jakob Poeltl has helped. Poeltl, who finished Monday with 18 points and eight rebounds, said Shead’s quick, downhill approach opens the defence and creates opportunities for fast finishes.

Shead said the two regularly exchange observations from video and discuss positioning during games.

Head coach Darko Rajakovic said the additional minutes and responsibility have brought out better performances from his guard.

“He embraces the moment. He embraces the challenge that’s ahead of him, and he’s doing a great job,” Rajakovic said.

Toronto hosts Boston on Wednesday before visiting Philadelphia on Thursday. Murray-Boyles is considered likely to return for one of those games, while Barnes and Quickley could remain out longer.

Sources