Raptors‘ Defensive Standouts: Top Steals Per Game Seasons
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the toronto Raptors boast a 31-year history marked by 13 playoff appearances and a championship title, and throughout that time, several exceptional defenders have patrolled the perimeter for the team. This article highlights the Raptors players who have delivered the most impactful single-season performances in terms of steals per game.
Doug Christie – 1997, 2.5 Steals Per Game
Doug Christie holds the franchise record for steals per game in a single season, averaging an remarkable 2.5 in 1997. This marked a meaningful leap for Christie, who had joined the Raptors mid-season in 1996 and was now enjoying his first full campaign with the team. Starting in 81 games, Christie’s defensive impact was undeniable, ranking second in the league in steals, trailing only mookie Blaylock’s 2.7 SPG. Prior to this season, Christie had never averaged more than 1.4 steals per game, making 1997 a true breakout year.
Doug Christie – 1998, 2.4 Steals Per Game
Building on his previous success,Christie continued to excel defensively in 1998. He elevated his offensive output to a career-high 16.5 points per game while maintaining his disruptive defensive presence, averaging over 2.0 steals per game for a second consecutive season. While Mookie Blaylock again led the league in steals, Christie secured the third-highest total.
Doug Christie – 1999, 2.3 Steals Per Game
Christie’s penultimate season with the raptors saw him maintain a high level of play, averaging 15.2 points and 2.3 steals per game. This marked his third straight year finishing among the league’s top five in steals per game, placing behind Kendall Gill, Eddie Jones, Allen Iverson, and Jason Kidd. Despite Christie’s strong individual performance, the Raptors finished sixth in the Central Division and missed the playoffs in the shortened 1998-99 season.
Alvin Robertson - 1996,2.2 Steals Per Game
A veteran known for his defensive prowess, Alvin Robertson made a significant impact in his single season with the Raptors in 1996. Returning to the NBA after a period away due to injury, the 33-year-old Robertson played 77 games and averaged 2.2 steals per game. This performance placed him fifth in the league in steals,behind elite defenders like Gary Payton,Mookie Blaylock,Michael Jordan,and Jason kidd. Robertson, a three-time steals champion, currently ranks 11th all-time in career steals with 2,112 and boasts the highest career steals per game average at 2.7.
Kyle Lowry – 2016, 2.1 Steals Per Game
The most recent player on this list, Kyle Lowry, earned his place with a standout 2016 season. Averaging 2.1 steals per game, Lowry played a key role in leading the Raptors to an Eastern Conference Finals appearance against the Cleveland Cavaliers. His exceptional performance also garnered votes for both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, finishing fourth in the league in steals per game and securing his second of six consecutive All-Star selections.