Raptors Game Preview Wednesday, December 21st, 2022
Life in the NBA doesn't get any easier for the struggling Raptors!
It's a showdown between Atlantic Division rivals as the Toronto Raptors take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden tonight. The Raptors have had a tough season, having lost six consecutive games and desperate for a win to end the string of losses. Meanwhile, the Knicks are riding high after winning an impressive eight straight games—can they extend their streak with another victory tonight?
The Knicks come into this matchup having defeated the visiting Golden State Warriors 132-94 on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden. This win improved New York to an overall record of 18-13 and marked their 8th consecutive victory, making them one of the hottest teams in the league.
Meanwhile, the Raptors are stuck in a bad slump with six straight losses. During this skid, they've lost four games by four points or fewer - most recently falling 101-104 in overtime against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. This is Toronto's longest losing streak since 2012-13, when they went through two similar six-game droughts over a regular season.
On the bright side, Pascal Siakam, the All-NBA forward, has been putting up monster numbers all season long, with averages of 25 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists per game this season. He was particularly impressive in their last game against Philadelphia, where he scored 38 points and 15 rebounds. Raptors need Siakam to stay just as aggressive on offence against the Knicks tonight, to have a chance at victory on the road.
Raptors need to focus on their strength which lies in their physicality, as they take advantage of their size and strength to create an edge over their opponents.
Raptors rank in the top five of the league in offensive rebound rate (31.4%) and second-chance points (17.1 per game). Toronto is also an elite team with fast break points at 17.8 per game. They need all of that tonight against this hot Knicks team.
Tonight, both streaks will be put on hold as these Eastern Conference foes battle it out for bragging rights at MSG. Will the Raptors be able to snap their current drought and emerge victorious? Or will New York rally behind an electric home crowd and extend their incredible winning run? Fans can get ready for an epic showdown!
