After logging minutes in the preseason with the Toronto Raptors, rookie Allen Graves believes he is adjusting well to the higher level of competition in the NBA.
Graves was limited early in training camp by a groin injury, which sidelined him for three of the Raptors' five preseason games. He debuted on Oct. 13 with five points and three rebounds and closed out the preseason on Friday with nine points and eight rebounds.
The 19th overall pick on Monday acknowledged his shooting woes after converting only 25% from the field (5-for-20). But while his shots are not falling, Graves wants to impact games at a high level by any means necessary when his number is called.
"Obviously, an adjustment period, just learning defensively," Graves said. "Offensively, just trying to figure out where I fit in with my role and continuing to attack. My shot is not falling right now, but just trying to do all of the little things: Get offensive rebounds and impact the game in any way I can."
Graves was highly touted out of Santa Clara for his defensive versatility and ability to otherwise impact games on that end of the court. The team can already envision him wreaking havoc in the frontcourt and is eager to see him debut this week.
The 6-foot-8 forward has left a strong first impression on coach Darko Rajaković early on, ingratiating himself with his new teammates and learning how to be a professional. He has been observant and is putting what he's learning into his daily routine.
With several players ahead of him on the depth chart, such as Scottie Barnes, Kawhi Leonard, Collin Murray-Boyles and Kyle Anderson, it is unclear how much time Graves will see to start the season. But he is getting more comfortable around the team every day.
"From summer league, you're playing against a higher level of competition from college," Graves said. "Then you go to scrimmaging against Scottie and all those guys, and you're like, 'Man, this is different, too.' Then you go to playing in a real game, and it is just like adding those levels but continuing to adjust to it. I feel like I'm getting there and getting more comfortable out there on the court every time I step on it."
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Raptors' Allen Graves opens up about higher level of NBA competition