Raptors F Patrick Patterson appears locked in as starting PF

Raptors forward Patrick Patterson has started at power forward in all three of the Raptors' preseason games and is averaging eight points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 18.7 minutes per game.

It looks like the offseason departure of Amir Johnson will pave the way for Patterson to serve as the Raptors' starting power forward this season, at least initially. Lucas Scola, James Johnson, and Bismack Biyombo are the top candidates to see minutes behind Patterson, but the 26-year-old's ability to knock down three-pointers at a respectable clip will give the Raptors their most versatile lineup. Though it's difficult to see Patterson serving as much more than a third or fourth option offensively when he's on the court, the expected uptick in playing time that he'll receive may be enough for him to finish will career-highs this season in multiple categories.