Toronto Raptors guard Gradey Dick is adopting a counterintuitive strategy to break out of his shooting slump: he's doubling down on his defensive efforts. The young player believes that a more engaged and effective performance on the defensive end will directly translate to better rhythm and opportunities on offence.
A New Focus for the Raptors Guard
Dick, who was selected 13th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, is known for his shooting prowess. However, like many rookies and sophomores, he has faced challenges with consistency at the professional level. Instead of solely putting up extra shots in practice, he is now channeling energy into becoming a more complete two-way player. His theory is that by creating stops and getting out in transition, he can find easier scoring chances and build offensive confidence.
The shift in focus comes as the Raptors continue to build their identity in the 2025-2026 NBA season. Team officials have noted Dick's increased commitment to film study on defensive schemes and his willingness to take on tougher assignments during games and practices.
Putting Theory into Practice
This approach was on display during a recent game against the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. While his box score might not have shown a dramatic leap, coaches observed a higher level of engagement and positioning on defence, which led to several key transition plays. The logic is simple: better defence leads to more possessions, and more possessions provide more opportunities to shoot.
"It's about impacting the game in multiple ways," a team source explained. "When you're actively involved defensively, you stay in the flow of the game. You're not just standing in the corner waiting for a shot. That activity can help a shooter find his groove."
The Path Forward for Dick and the Raptors
For Gradey Dick and the Toronto Raptors, this development is about long-term growth. The organization is invested in his potential as a key rotational piece and eventual starter. By building a foundation of solid defensive habits now, they aim to unlock his full offensive potential down the line.
This holistic development strategy is common among successful NBA wings. Players who can reliably contribute on both ends of the floor earn more minutes and greater trust from their coaches, which in turn leads to more offensive freedom. Dick's journey to improve his shooting through defence is a testament to the interconnected nature of modern basketball skills.
As the season progresses, Raptors fans will be watching closely to see if this renewed focus on defence becomes the key that unlocks Gradey Dick's promising offensive talent and helps solidify his role with the team.
