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Raptors' Jared Sullinger: Will likely start at power forward

Sullinger appears to be the favorite to open the season as the Raptors' starting power forward, Ryan Wolstat of the Toronto Sun reports. "We'll figure it out. I know how effective [Patrick Patterson] is coming off of the bench," coach Dwane Casey said. "I know Jared has started [a lot of games in Boston]. I still like Pat coming off of the bench, again, I don't want to guarantee anybody anything, but I like the combination of [center Jonas Valanciunas] and Jared, unless they come up and just stink up the place, which I don't see that happening."

Analysis:

There are some questions about how effective Sullinger and Valanciunas will be together defensively, as neither one is particularly quick, so while Sullinger might be in the starting five for the Raptors, he'll probably split minutes fairly evenly with Patterson. That said, the former Celtic is on a one-year "prove-it" deal and will have all the motivation possible to stay in shape and provide the Raptors with the kind of rebounding from the power forward spot they haven't had since Chris Bosh left town.

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