Toronto Raptors vs. San Antonio Spurs: Preview, start time, and more

The Toronto Raptors will look to win their first Summer League contest against the San Antonio Spurs tonight.

Toronto dropped their opening Summer League on Saturday to the Golden State Warriors, losing 80-71, but there are several key takeaways to carry into tonight’s game.

Chris Boucher was a walking highlight in the Raptors’ ugly loss to the Warriors. He was throwing down dunks, driving in for layups, hitting a couple of threes, and grabbing every board he could on his way to a 21-point 13-rebound night. On the other end of the floor, he was able to deter the Warriors from driving into the lane when he was in the paint. While the Spurs’ starting frontcourt is made up of Luka Samanic, Drew Eubanks, who have shown flashes here in Summer League, expect for the 2018-19 NBA G League MVP to try for an even bigger game tonight nonetheless.

Outside of Boucher, Corey Walden and Lindell Wigginton put on an impressive performance as well in Saturday’s contest. Although their numbers don’t show it, both Walden and Wigginton displayed some solid defense, vision, and athleticism. Walden started last game but don’t be surprised if Wigginton gets the nod tonight.

For the Spurs, Lonnie Walker IV, Keldon Johnson, and Quinndary Weatherspoon are their top three guards. Walker IV had put up 28 of the Spurs’ 59 points through three quarters against the Orlando Magic on Friday night. The game had to be cancelled for precautionary reasons because an earthquake that had struck California. Walker IV had sat out yesterday’s game against the Hornets for rest, but expect him to go tonight. The other two, Johnson and Weatherspoon, who both poured in 19 points against Charlotte, have also showcased their offensive versatility and may give the Raptors problems if the team’s defense doesn’t hold up.

The Raptors will need bounce back games from Jordan Loyd and Malcolm Miller — who both struggled on Saturday night. Loyd shot 4-for-13 from the field while Miller only made one of his six attempts. Those two along with Walden and Wigginton will have their hands full trying to stop the Spurs’ explosive guard play.

One other thing to watch for is rotation. Coach Jon Goodwillie served five DNP-CD’s to Duane Notice, Jesse Govan, Matt Morgan, Jordon Varnado, and Kyle Allman Jr. Don’t expect for all of them to play tonight, but keep in mind Summer League is about experimenting, and the Raptors are not done with that just yet.

Where to Watch:

7:00 p.m. EST on ESPN U

Lineups:

Raptors – Corey Walden, Jordan Loyd, Malcolm Miller, Chris Boucher, Dewan Hernandez,

Spurs – Josh Maggette, Keldon Johnson, Lonnie Walker IV, Luka Samanic, Drew Eubanks

Injuries:

Raptors – Sogaba Konate (knee – out), Jamaal Franklin (foot – out)

Spurs – Chimezie Metu (foot – day-to-day)