A Disappointing Loss for the Toronto Raptors
Last night's game between the Toronto Raptors and the Orlando Magic was a hard-fought battle that ended in a disappointing loss for Toronto. The Raptors played the Orlando Magic team which has the worst record in the NBA. They didn't like that last night.
One of the key issues in last night’s game was Toronto’s inability to defend against Orlando’s three-point shooting. The Magic shot an impressive 38.5% from beyond the arc, which included several wide-open looks due to ineffective help defense from Toronto and poor rotations on defense. Without proper help, Daniel Wagner had little trouble getting downhill and creating great looks for his teammates near the rim. His ability to score and create offense was one of the key reasons why Orlando came out on top in this match-up. He was not the only one. Franz Wagner also had his way with the Raptors all night.
It's also worth mentioning that the Magic shot 59.2% from the field as supposed to Raptors' 4.24%. Not good enough for a team with playoff aspirations.
Despite the loss, there were some bright spots for the Raptors. Pascal Siakam had a great game. He finished with 36 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists while shooting an impressive 13/27 from the field. He singlehandedly led a late charge for Toronto that ultimately fell short, but it showed how valuable he is to this team. His ability to get to his spots on offense and create offense for others made it difficult for Orlando to contain him throughout the game.
Fred VanVleet is finding His Rhythm
Fred VanVleet has been struggling as of late, especially regarding his shooting percentages from deep (29%). Unfortunately, last night he was 2/9 shooting from three-point range which didn't help with their offensive woes. However, despite his struggles, he still contributed by finding open teammates or making plays off-ball that opened up shots for someone else. Steady Freddy ended up with 19 points and he can't blame the loss on him even though he finished with a -19 rating in the game.
Scottie Barnes was absolutely a no-show last night, with only 6 points and a -24 rating which is good for the worst in the team. We need more from him. 6 Points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists will not cut it.
Gary Trent Jr.'s Growing Comfort Level With Bench Lead Offensive Weapon Off Role
Gary Trent Jr.'s role has grown tremendously over the past few weeks since taking over as bench lead offensive weapon off the bench. He's a great asset coming off the bench, and helps to keep the Raptors from experiencing some of those long offensive droughts that we often see. Last night he had another solid showing where he finished with 20 points on 4/10 shooting from beyond the arc—including several big shots throughout the fourth quarter—showing just how comfortable he has become within this role so quickly and effectively as well as being able to knock down shots when needed most.
Raptors lost this game because of their defence. Toronto needs to refocus and to start playing better on defence if they want to make it further this season. They have the talent and the potential, but they need to be consistent and keep it up night in and night out.
The good thing is that Raptors will take on the Orlando Magic is less than 48 hours. They have an opportunity to redeem themselves and to make a statement.
