Raptors HQ - All PostsThe International Fan Site of the Toronto Raptors Basketball Clubhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/14481/raptors-fave.png2024-03-17T21:06:35-04:00http://www.raptorshq.com/rss/current/2024-03-17T21:06:35-04:002024-03-17T21:06:35-04:00Toronto Raptors vs. Orlando Magic Final Score: 96 - 111
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<figcaption>Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Nwora and Trent Jr. have strong performances, but it’s not enough to overcome the inspired Orlando team</p> <p id="zQkL5P">The <a href="https://www.raptorshq.com">Toronto Raptors</a> closed out the series with the Orlando Magic, falling for the third time, and seventh straight. The shorthanded roster continues to try to make the best of a bad situation, taking their opportunities to learn and develop as the season starts to wane. </p>
<p id="FZHaKa">For Toronto, Jordan Nwora and Gary Trent Jr. were the dominant performers. Nwora had good defensive effort throughout the game, and led the Raptors with 18-7. GTJ chipped in with 15-5-3 and 2 steals, and had a number of creative offensive plays out of his repertoire. </p>
<p id="ZxI6O6">Orlando’s biggest difference makers in this matchup were Paolo Banchero who finished with 29-6-5 and Franz Wagner who had 22-9-5. Banchero continues to impress in his first all-star season, maintaining a level head throughout the matchup and picking his spots effectively. Despite the presence of plenty of young talent on the roster, he continues to emerge as a leader on the floor. </p>
<p id="T6HaAw">Orlando won the jump ball, and Franz Wagner was aggressive from the tip, with a shot right at the rack on the first possession. He continued to battle on the boards and be a presence in the paint on offence, being dominant fairly early. In similar fashion to the previous matchup on Friday, Orlando’s offence centred on shots in the paint, with their first 12 of 15 points all coming from that area of the floor. </p>
<p id="uETHR7">Toronto struggled early, as the Magic defence was getting back and set rapidly, picking up full court, and fighting over screens. As a result, Toronto turned the ball over 4 times in the first four minutes of the game, forcing a timeout. They got organized after the stoppage, and dialled up their effectiveness at pace. Sparked by a steal and tough and-one by Gary, Toronto went on a 7-0 run, bringing them back within a possession. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">DEFENCE ➡️ OFFENCE <a href="https://twitter.com/gtrentjr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gtrentjr</a> <a href="https://t.co/REwLvEbqhe">pic.twitter.com/REwLvEbqhe</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1769489820152135877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a>
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<p id="DlqWAX">Kelly Olynyk continued to demonstrate his leadership and veteran savvy. Early on, he had a number of tough baskets, including one where he demonstrated classic fundamental footwork on a step through that beat Banchero. He also consistently looked for his teammates, setting up a number of actions for cutters. </p>
<p id="gqtgUy">The biggest struggle for Toronto in the first was from beyond the arc, going 1-8 with the singular 3-pointer coming from Ochai. The bench unit held their own in the final minutes of the quarter, and a circus shot by Quickley in the last minute tied them up briefly, finishing the quarter 24-26 after Mo Wagner bullied his way into a layup.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">LET'S GET IT <a href="https://twitter.com/newanimprovedJR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@newanimprovedJR</a> ➡️ <a href="https://twitter.com/JordanNwora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JordanNwora</a> <a href="https://t.co/rhck95OEdc">pic.twitter.com/rhck95OEdc</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1769492333135909287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a>
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<p id="6jZRPb">To start the second, Gradey Dick opened up scoring with a mid-range shot, and for each basket Orlando made, Toronto was able to answer. With the return of the Magic’s starters to the floor, they were able to build a slight lead, but the Raptors changed defensive looks and matched their intensity, returning to within one possession of their opponent. </p>
<p id="QUakmz">The Raptors were able to draw some crafty fouls, getting into the bonus with five minutes left in the quarter, but unfortunately weren’t able to use that to their advantage too much. Gradey Dick was able to cash in the second 3-pointer of the game for the Raps, who were continuing to struggle from distance to the extent that they were hesitant in taking them. </p>
<p id="imNhcp">The quarter continued with a back and forth by both teams, with offensive contributions from each of the Raptors on the court. Orlando was able to make a couple tough shots at the end, with a long range shot by Caleb Houstan giving Orlando the 52-47 edge headed into the locker room. </p>
<p id="iL20mv">At the start of the second half, Toronto’s defence was aggressive, but struggled offensively, missing their first 6 shots from the field. Orlando was able to build a 10 point lead early on, forcing a timeout. The Magic’s momentum continued to build, quieted only briefly by a 3-pointer by Gary, and an and-one by Quickley. Toronto continued to rely on pace, trying to get back to score before the Magic could set their defence, and it seemed to be the only way they were able to be successful. </p>
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<p lang="und" dir="ltr">AND-1 ️ <a href="https://twitter.com/IQ_GodSon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IQ_GodSon</a> <a href="https://t.co/5Kry7a4V2e">pic.twitter.com/5Kry7a4V2e</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1769507321170854038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a>
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<p id="GKrfIq">Unfortunately, the third quarter took a turn for the worse with increased shotmaking by Orlando, who managed to find yet another gear on defence as well. Their lead continued to grow, and with Olynyk picking up his fourth foul, the Magic’s size continued to be a dominant factor. Out of a timeout, Nwora single-handedly scored the next 10 points for the Raptors before Ramsey chipped in with a flush. </p>
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<p lang="und" dir="ltr">GET <a href="https://twitter.com/newanimprovedJR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@newanimprovedJR</a> <a href="https://t.co/vKKciUackO">pic.twitter.com/vKKciUackO</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1769512518223900921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a>
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<p id="KndA1t">On the next play, Gradey Dick was able to cash in a corner 3-pointer, but despite their improved offence, Orlando maintained a double digit lead 87-73. </p>
<p id="rK8GN1">The fourth quarter felt somewhat uneventful, with the Magic continuing to dominate at both ends of the floor. Kelly Olynyk and Gary Trent Jr. helped improve the shooting splits from distance, but Toronto wasn’t able to dig themselves out of the deficit. </p>
<p id="FamSxM">Despite good effort and some creative offensive plays, it wasn’t enough to overcome a fully engaged Orlando team. Late in the quarter, down by 20 points, both teams substituted their bench in to play out the last couple minutes. The Magic cruised easily to a 15 point victory, continuing to build hope in what they are capable of and their post season aspirations.</p>
<p id="G17ns5">As the season starts to wind down, the final fourteen games of the season will probably look somewhat similar to this one. Hopefully for guys like GTJ who are building to their next contract, it can be a great opportunity for them to showcase their talent and capabilities to maximize what they’ll get.</p>
<p id="dnfNUw">Now, the Raptors have a few days off before they play 5 of the next 6 games at home. They’ll face Sacramento on Wednesday, at 7:30pm on TSN.</p>
https://www.raptorshq.com/2024/3/17/24104410/toronto-raptors-vs-orlando-magic-final-score-96-111-raptors-fall-to-magic-in-final-matchupRebecca Schapelhouman2024-03-17T15:19:52-04:002024-03-17T15:19:52-04:00Toronto Raptors vs. Orlando Magic: Preview, TV Schedule, Injuries, and More
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<figcaption>John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Raptors travel south, trying to prevent a series sweep by the Magic.</p> <p id="l4Zn1i">The <a href="https://www.raptorshq.com">Toronto Raptors</a> are headed down south to complete the home and home series with the Orlando Magic. </p>
<p id="BMVYkV">Tonight they will attempt to prevent a series sweep by Orlando who took the first two games, one on Friday and the other back in November. </p>
<p id="vEXRdt">Having dropped 8 of their last 9 is disheartening, and the roster is still depleted, continuing to present challenges, but the guys who aren’t banged up are still showing up every night trying to return the Raps back into the win column. </p>
<p id="CC39Cg">In their last matchup, Toronto was outscored 52-42 in the paint. Likely the product of a size disadvantage, a problem that isn’t easy to fix with the continuing injury bug. Jontay Porter struggled a bit offensively in the last game, but continues to play bigger than he is as a five man.</p>
<p id="GDRdBb">Playing backup center for Olynyk is a role that he has been doing fairly effectively, and with some tape and a couple days since the last matchup hopefully they can find some solutions to paint scoring. Being able to keep bigger guards on the floor like Gradey Dick would also be a benefit, but he was -32 in his time on the floor. </p>
<p id="4jrAua">Darko didn’t seem overly concerned, as higher minutes for him would eventually result in a tough game for him. Hopefully he can bounce back though, so he’s not as much of a hindrance defensively, but also that he can chip in a few extra points.</p>
<p id="B4BBAV">The Raptors were successful against Orlando in fast break points, outsourcing them 37-13 in that category. </p>
<p id="R7d6WQ">Orlando’s defence is tough, ranking third in the league, so continuing to take advantage in those situations will likely continue to be a source of scoring for them. </p>
<p id="xTzjRW">Of course, this will likely be the thing Orlando is trying to prevent as well, since it was their biggest downfall last time around. The other highlight from their last matchup was Gary Trent Jr.’s play, who scored 31 points, including 7-11 from long range. Gary excluded, the rest of the team shot 7-34 from long range, so Toronto will need a little bit more from the other guys, especially given their disadvantage in the paint. </p>
<p id="bHS29s">If Gary can pull together another performance like that, along with additional support from the rest of the team, it’s not impossible to end this game with a different result. </p>
<p id="BQKBi6"><strong>How to Watch: </strong></p>
<p id="gFGkX3">Sportsnet, at 6:00 pm ET</p>
<p id="VW3YN3"><strong>Likely Lineups:</strong></p>
<p id="nCFyZc">Toronto: Gary Trent Jr., Immanuel Quickley, Ochai Agbaji, Gradey Dick, Kelly Olynyk</p>
<p id="ZcCBvi">Orlando: Jalen Suggs, Paolo Banchero, Wendell Carter Jr., Franz Wagner, Gary Harris</p>
<p id="8em0NM"><strong>Injuries</strong>:</p>
<p id="1Q7a8z">Toronto: Scottie Barnes (Out; Left hand fracture), RJ Barrett (Out; Personal reasons), Chris Boucher (Out; Right MCL tear), D.J. Carton (Out; Right ankle sprain), Mouhamadou Gueye (Out; G-league two-way), Jakob Poeltl (Out; Left hand torn ligament)</p>
<p id="k5py7l">Orlando: None listed.</p>
https://www.raptorshq.com/2024/3/17/24103797/toronto-raptors-vs-orlando-magic-preview-tv-schedule-injuries-and-moreRebecca Schapelhouman2024-03-15T23:10:07-04:002024-03-15T23:10:07-04:00Recap: Raptors are unable to conjure enough Magic, falling to Orlando, 113-103
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<figcaption>Photo by Vaughn Ridley/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The shorthanded Raptors’ valiant effort falls short as Gary Trent Jr.’s season-best scoring output goes to waste in another Toronto loss.</p> <p id="qjJenU">At this point in the season, the difference between winning and losing can simply come down to which team has a healthier roster. </p>
<p id="ySwJO9">In the case of Toronto and Orlando, the Magic won this game before it even tipped off.</p>
<p id="NOXIha">In the first of two games in a home-and-away doubleheader between the teams, Orlando drew first blood with a 113-103 victory over the injury-depleted Raptors. The Magic received great production throughout the lineup. Franz Wagner led all Magic players with 19 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals. Paolo Banchero came close to notching his second career triple-double, finishing with 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists. Jalen Suggs scored 16 points to go along with 3 steals and a game-high +13. </p>
<p id="3CzAFm">For the Raptors, Gary Trent Jr. scored a season-high 31 points, including 7-of-11 from beyond the arc. Immanuel Quickley continued his improved play as a facilitator with his 4th game this month with double-digit assists. IQ finished with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Three Raptors scored in double figures off the bench, led by Jordan Nwora who finished with 14 points.</p>
<p id="PDreEq">The pre-game presser with Raptors Head Coach, Darko Rajakovic, is normally filled with questions about player availability, Xs-and-Os, and scouting reports on the opponent. That was not the case tonight as Rajakovic spoke about the Barrett family as they grieve the tragic passing of RJ’s younger brother, Nathan. Before the game, the Raptors held a moment of silence.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Raptors</a> held a moment of silence to honour the life of Nathan Barrett ahead of tonight’s game <a href="https://t.co/1yWF5SezgR">pic.twitter.com/1yWF5SezgR</a></p>— Kayla Grey (@Kayla_Grey) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kayla_Grey/status/1768782653690405368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2024</a>
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<p id="qNqO8y">With the Raptors season hurtling towards the draft lottery, most of the intrigue lately has been the availability of players. Scottie Barnes and Jakob Poeltl are essentially out for the season with left-hand injuries. It would surprise no one if Chris Boucher has played his last game <s>as a Raptor</s> of the year after sustaining an MCL injury last week. Further down the bench, D.J. Carton is still out with a right ankle sprain while Mouhamadou Gueye is on assignment with the 905. (The injury bug hit closer to home with our Editor, Chelsea Leite, unable to attend tonight’s game.)</p>
<p id="HueM7V">Orlando, on the other hand, fielded a fully healthy roster. The Magic wasted no time showing Toronto why they’re in contention to host a playoff series, racing out to a 10-3 lead and inciting Darko Rajakovic to call his first timeout less than 2 minutes into the game. </p>
<p id="xak4xT">The Raptors charged back into the game (and the lead) the only way they knew how — aggressive defense (4 steals) and in transition (8 fastbreak points) — taking a 27-24 lead into the first quarter break. </p>
<p id="zdoQGt">Toronto did an excellent job keeping Orlando’s All-Star, Paolo Banchero, in check. The reigning Rookie of the Year was held to 2 points on 1-of-6 shooting and 2 turnovers while playing the entire first quarter. </p>
<p id="6NOgzm">The Raptors carried its aggressive defense and timely fastbreak offense to grow the lead to nine, 37-28.</p>
<p id="Z99qMS">Another ripple effect of Toronto’s injury-decimated lineup is the lack of chemistry. By my count, there were <strong>five</strong> instances in the first half alone where a Raptor zigged when he was supposed to zag, leading to a Raptors turnover. </p>
<p id="uy4fF0">Orlando and its 4th-ranked defense prevented the Raptors from pulling away in the second quarter (as they did in Denver last week). The Magic held Toronto to 37% shooting the second frame — a number that looks even worse (21%) when removing the Raptors’ 4 field goals in transition. It’s not like Toronto was complaining. Considering the difference in healthy rosters, points are points, regardless of how they’re scored. </p>
<p id="WjVcBu">The Raptors stayed within striking distance at halftime, trailing 50-48, thanks in large part to its league-leading transition offense. Toronto outscored Orlando 20-7 in fastbreak points in the first half. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">IQ with 5 assists already in this game — been really impressed with how he’s dealt with Orlando’s length — throwing some dart passes <br><br>Also, Raptors in general are really dialled in defensively. Making the Magic work for it!</p>— Esfandiar Baraheni (@JustEsBaraheni) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustEsBaraheni/status/1768793976599941490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a>
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<p id="u0zhDz">Toronto was led by its only healthy starters, Gary Trent Jr. and Immanuel Quickley. GTJ led all Raptors with 14 first-half points, while IQ continued his great point guard play of late with 8 points, 6 assists, and 2 steals over the first two quarters. </p>
<p id="CQcppa">While the Raptors were able to bottle up Banchero, Orlando’s other rising star, Franz Wagner, scored 14 points and was a team-high +13 in the first half.</p>
<p id="qTgTTb">The second half started the same way the first half did with Orlando utilizing its size to overwhelm the undersized Raptors. The Magic scored 11 of the first 16 third-quarter points to push its lead to 61-53. Also like the first half, Toronto ratcheted up its defense to keep the Magic from growing the lead while scoring in transition to close the gap. An Ochai Agbaji fastbreak jam forced Orlando Head Coach, Jamahl Mosley to call a timeout as the Raptors closed the gap to 4 points.</p>
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<p lang="fr" dir="ltr">OCHAI <a href="https://t.co/ifY1ZObcfS">pic.twitter.com/ifY1ZObcfS</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1768807472335049086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a>
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<p id="xcyzEe">A personal 8-0 run by Jordan Nwora, highlighted by back-to-back transition threes, gave the Raptors a 69-67 lead. </p>
<p id="5luTs4">The Scotiabank Arena crowd was at its loudest when Nwora’s second triple fell....and quietest when Banchero answered with a three of his own a few seconds later. The Magic would go on to outscore the Raptors 17-4 to close out the third quarter and take an 84-73 lead into the final frame. </p>
<p id="s0H1MC">Early in the 4th quarter, each Raptor player on the floor was guarding someone on the Magic who was taller. Orlando’s advantage in length could not be overstated. On one sequence, Quickley had his floater blocked by Markelle Fultz. Jahmi’us Ramsey corralled the loose ball and tried to score at the rim, only to be swatted by Jonathan Isaac, ending in a shot clock violation. </p>
<p id="yjLE3P">For most of the game, whenever the Magic needed offense it would come in the paint where Orlando outscored Toronto, 52-42. However, as the Raptors made its final push and a Trent Jr. triple trimmed the deficit down to eight, it was beyond the arc where Orlando put the game away. Three-pointers by Wendell Carter Jr. and Jalen Suggs pushed the lead to 109-96, forcing a timeout and a stream of Raptors fans headed for the exits. </p>
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<p lang="in" dir="ltr">JAL3N<br><br>cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/Pp_doesit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pp_doesit</a> <a href="https://t.co/TErY7ul24D">pic.twitter.com/TErY7ul24D</a></p>— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) <a href="https://twitter.com/OrlandoMagic/status/1768816215609225499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a>
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<p id="WGIF7e">Considering how well the Raptors were able to defend Banchero — forcing him into 6 turnovers and 5-of-15 shooting — it must be deflating to see how full his stat line ended up being. On Sunday, these teams face each other again in Orlando. Toronto will, again, have to overcome a plethora of player absences, while also trying to replicate a positive defensive effort (all things considered). With winnable games dwindling and the injury report seemingly growing, the question is no longer whether or not the Raptors will finish with the 6th-worst record, but whether or not they can “catch up” to Portland, who are 4 games worse in the loss column.</p>
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https://www.raptorshq.com/2024/3/15/24102445/toronto-raptors-orlando-magic-game-recapJay Rosales2024-03-15T11:53:33-04:002024-03-15T11:53:33-04:00Toronto Raptors vs. Orlando Magic: Preview, TV Schedule, Injuries, and More
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<img alt="NBA: Toronto Raptors at Orlando Magic" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/X_0IdQ3Zbkx4ztnnd7Td7aKftG0=/0x0:3605x2403/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73209651/usa_today_21950455.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Raptors team faces the Orlando Magic at home in the first of a two-game series.</p> <p id="jkpqfM">The <a href="https://www.raptorshq.com">Toronto Raptors</a> return home tonight to play the first of a two-game series against the Orlando Magic. </p>
<p id="aItTo1">In the first matchup of the season, back in November, Orlando was victorious, but between then and now, the only Raptors who appeared in that game that are still on the roster and could play tonight are Garrett Temple, Gradey Dick, and Jalen McDaniels. </p>
<h2 id="SJKayW">Growing Injury List</h2>
<p id="1PCcYL">As Toronto continues to battle a rather long list of injuries, this will continue to be the case for games moving forward. Despite home court advantage, and the fact that neither team has a rest advantage, it still isn’t a fair fight. Credit to the Raptors though, because despite the mounting losses and depleted roster, they’ve still showed up and fought in every game.</p>
<p id="zey35w">The Raptors are currently on a five-game losing skid, including their recent four game road trip. The injury report continues to grow and social media is full of comparisons to the Tampa season. But, just like the silver lining that is Scottie Barnes, the result of the Tampa season, this injury bug is providing the perfect opportunity for the bench to show up and perform.</p>
<h2 id="y7xokN">Next Man Up</h2>
<p id="hQfkEJ">We’re already seeing leaps and bounds of improvement from Gradey Dick this season, who is now leading rookies in 3 pt% league-wide.</p>
<p id="pJSOBO">Bruce Brown, who has become watchable after a rough stretch to begin his tenure as a Raptor is stepping up, and even Kelly Olynyk is solidifying his role on the team. Regardless of the outcome, the goal for this game is to continue to provide growth and development opportunities for the guys who will be our bench next year and beyond.</p>
<p id="dQsCKm">For Orlando, currently ranked 5th in the East, this an opportunity for them to continue a streak of success and mount a challenge for the 4 spot. They’ve won 7 of their last 10, and first time all-star Banchero has been leading the team in points, rebounds, and assists. They have a significant amount of size on their roster as well, with 6 players on their roster at or above 6’10”. Expect them to use this size advantage tonight on actions down low and in the paint to try and overcome the Raptors. </p>
<p id="u23UB4">For the Raptors to be successful, we’ll need continued effort on defence. During their most recent matchup against Detroit, they found success during the second quarter when they weren’t allowing anything easy. </p>
<p id="3TnnQs">Orlando’s defence is tough, allowing the third fewest points in the league, so overcoming any lead by the Magic will be a challenge, especially if they let them get easy looks at the other end. </p>
<p id="c4j2Wj">We’ll need an improvement from beyond the arc as well, since the Raptors are undersized in this matchup. Against the Pistons they shot 25% from beyond the arc, but that’s uncharacteristically low, so hopefully guys like Gradey, Ochai, and IQ can get more of their long range shots to fall. </p>
<h2 id="HhvkzO">Game Info</h2>
<p id="edXrpX"><strong>How to Watch:</strong> </p>
<p id="PCzUIy">TSN, at 7:30 pm ET</p>
<p id="4tkwVY"><strong>Likely Lineups:</strong></p>
<p id="cjONpZ">Toronto: Immanuel Quickley, Ochai Agbaji, Kelly Olynyk, Gradey Dick, Bruce Brown</p>
<p id="ZHcTff">Orlando: Jalen Suggs, Paolo Banchero, Wendell Carter Jr., Franz Wagner, Gary Harris</p>
<p id="Qdqhle"><strong>Injuries:</strong></p>
<p id="cAWMOU">Toronto: Scottie Barnes (Out; Left hand fracture), RJ Barrett (Out; Personal reasons), Chris Boucher (Out; Right MCL tear), D.J. Carton (Out; Right ankle sprain), Mouhamadou Gueye (Out; G-league two-way), Jakob Poeltl (Out; Left hand torn ligament), Gary Trent Jr. (Questionable; Right groin strain)</p>
<p id="LezBuO">Orlando: Kevon Harris (Out; G-league two-way), Jett Howard (Out; G-league on-assignment), Trevelin Queen (Out; G-league two-way)</p>
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https://www.raptorshq.com/2024/3/15/24101699/toronto-raptors-vs-orlando-magic-preview-tv-schedule-injuries-and-moreRebecca Schapelhouman2024-03-13T21:44:44-04:002024-03-13T21:44:44-04:00Toronto Raptors vs. Detroit Pistons Final Score: 113-104 Raptors drop final game of a challenging road trip
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<figcaption>Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The depleted Raptors’ squad continues to struggle, and it’s high time they head home </p> <p id="tYjJLh">In the final of a four game road trip, a still-depleted Toronto Raptors team faced the 11-53 Detroit Pistons. Luckily for the Raps, Immanuel Quickley returned for this matchup in the absence of RJ. Unluckily for the Raps, their woes against Detroit continued, falling by 9 points. </p>
<p id="tf6OMa">It’s hard not to be frustrated with the outcome of this game, but the reality of the Raptors’ current situation shouldn’t be lost on anyone. They’re missing 4 of their 5 regular starters, part of their bench, and they’ve just been on a week-long road trip from one end of the country to the other. To add insult to injury, they struggled from beyond the arc, shooting only 25% from long range. They lost the battle down low as well, being out-rebounded by Detroit 58-37, led by Jalen Duren who came up in a big way, finishing with 24 points and a career high 23 boards. </p>
<p id="j3JQ3l">As much as we’d all like to see the Raps win games, the continued development of everyone on the roster has to be the focus on a night like tonight. Of course Quickley performed well, finishing with 25-5-8, but more importantly the contributions of guys like Olynyk and Porter should be the biggest focus, as both of those guys had big games tonight. </p>
<p id="Y1Gt0N">Kelly Olynyk opened up scoring for the game, followed immediately by a lob pass from Cunningham to Duren for a dunk. In the early minutes, it was obvious that the Raps were undersized, as the Pistons utilized a 6’ 10” Jalen Duren to own the paint on put-backs and dunks, cashing in 10 points in the first six minutes of the game. The Raptors were able to keep up though, led by Kelly Olynyk whose scoring and passing has been significant lately, especially with how short the bench has become. Quickley contributed effectively as well, cashing in 8 points in the first quarter, helping Toronto go on a 8-0 run to obtain a brief lead. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> AND ONE <a href="https://t.co/oXVyw3PDLc">pic.twitter.com/oXVyw3PDLc</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1768055983815709027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="h2ot3K">This was erased by some timely shot making for Detroit. Brown made 1 of 2 at the line to end the quarter, ending the frame down 27 - 32. </p>
<p id="AARNS2">The defence saw the changes that needed to be made and forced a turnover on Detroit’s first possession. With shots starting to fall for the Raps as well, they were able to go on an unanswered 12-point run, preventing the Pistons from scoring for the first (almost) four minutes of the quarter. </p>
<p id="d6S9fV">It took over six minutes for them to obtain a field goal in the frame, the catalyst that allowed the Raptors to develop a comfortable lead. Porter was big in this quarter, showing some defensive prowess and a highlight pass to McDaniels for a slam. Quickley subbed in, but stayed quiet for the first couple minutes until he managed an impressive block from behind that he immediately turned into offence with a dunk. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">he's too QUICK <a href="https://t.co/JsFPPEU8PG">pic.twitter.com/JsFPPEU8PG</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1768063051490623660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="HVM6hP">Kelly Olynyk continued to facilitate as well, helping encourage ball movement, passing and cutting that worked well for the Raps. The continued effort on defence resulted in a 16 point lead after a pair of free throws by IQ, but in the final 3 minutes the Raptors started leaking oil and Detroit took advantage, headed into the locker room with a diminished 57-52 advantage. </p>
<p id="kDek9x">To start the second half, bad turned into worse. It took the Pistons only two minutes to tie up the game, and a long range corner shot by Isaiah Stewart gave Detroit a 3-point lead. Despite the struggles, the Raps showed continuous effort, trying to work their way back into the game. </p>
<p id="qzx1nu">IQ and Olynyk showed off some nice two-man action that kept the game within one possession throughout the opening minutes of the third. Duren’s size continued to be an issue for the Raps, but everyone continued to chip in, moving without the ball, contesting shots, and staying aggressive on defence. A buzzer-beating 3-pointer gave Detroit a two-possession advantage to close the quarter 83-79. </p>
<p id="dIvibI">In the final frame, the lead for the Pistons only grew. Shooting woes set in, and Toronto found themselves with a number of empty possessions, struggling on offense. At times they were leaving the ball short, but turnovers and blocks also plagued them, allowing the Pistons to slowly build a double digit lead. </p>
<p id="aO8lQn">The highlight play from the quarter was a steal by Olynyk that lead to this impressive dunk by Ramsey:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MY GOODNESS <a href="https://twitter.com/newanimprovedJR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@newanimprovedJR</a> <a href="https://t.co/T5g3vLuiTd">pic.twitter.com/T5g3vLuiTd</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1768081773869580780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a>
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<p id="AhngVU">In the fading minutes of the quarter, Toronto tried to string together some offence, and managed to cut the lead to 6, due mostly to mistakes by Detroit, but it wasn’t enough to regain the lead. Toronto left Detroit with their fifth straight loss, including all four of the games in this road trip.</p>
<p id="bspya7">On a much lighter note, this was a great opportunity for some of the guys that don’t get many minutes to work through mistakes and show what they’re capable of. </p>
<p id="cAuPjd">Jontay Porter’s defence against Jokic earlier in the week, and now against Detroit’s bigs was pretty impressive. Despite the fact that he’s rather undersized as a center, he’s shown a good defensive IQ and always seems to be in the right spot. He is happy to fight down low for rebounds and be a pesky defender, even at great cost to himself at times, like when he caught the elbow of near 7-footer James Wiseman. On top of that, he’s showing some offensive prowess, actively looking for his teammates and finding them moving off the ball effectively. He managed 10-6-6 on the night with a steal and 4 blocks, being one of the biggest contributors off the bench. He’s an intriguing part of the team, and it’ll be interesting to see what the Raptors decide to do with him moving forward. </p>
<p id="kTHjvs">Kelly Olynyk is continuing to impress since his trade to Toronto as well. This game was a perfect example of what he can bring to the team, and lends legitimacy to the extension he signed with the Raps. His passing chops continue to be one of the most significant parts of his game, but it’s obvious he can do a lot for them, just in the way he reads opposing defences. His screen setting and seals down low show his ability to read the game, even if his teammates don’t always pick up on it and the play doesn’t develop, he’s doing what he’s supposed to and that’s encouraging. He managed to draw a charge in this matchup, in true vet style, and finished with 19-6-8 with 2 steals and 2 blocks. </p>
<p id="M4Ky9J">Now the Raptors will be able to return home, in the first of a pair of matchups against Orlando. The first of the two-game series will be on Friday at 7:00 pm on TSN.</p>
https://www.raptorshq.com/2024/3/13/24100260/toronto-raptors-vs-detroit-pistons-final-score-104-113-raptors-drop-final-game-of-road-tripRebecca Schapelhouman2024-03-11T23:51:04-04:002024-03-11T23:51:04-04:00Recap: Toronto Raptors vs Denver Nuggets Final — 125 - 119
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<img alt="Toronto Raptors v Denver Nuggets" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Z99rhvqXP6nzDdw00n1YNu5ZzhY=/0x0:7063x4709/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73200012/2068301251.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The undermanned Raptors fought hard and led for most of the game before dropping a close one to the reigning champions.</p> <p id="XU6t0p">Despite the depleted lineup, this was one of the most shocking and exciting Raptors games of the entire season. Starting with the BOBA Dick lineup — credit fellow Raptors HQ writer Jay Rosales — Toronto looked like cattle fodder for the reigning NBA Champions who boast the league’s second best home record at 26-6.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The short-handed Raps are rolling with Barrett, Olynyk, Brown, Agbaji, and Dick. <br><br>The vaunted BOBA Dick lineup!</p>— Jay Rosales (@Rosalesaurus) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rosalesaurus/status/1767351328227914012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="fAeu5A">Yet, it turned into an impressive showing from the Raptors youth and bench players in some heavily elevated roles.</p>
<p id="phvkFa">To start the game, two of the best passing big men in the game lined up for tip-off. Unsurprisingly, the reigning Finals MVP, and the taller one, won the tip and started with the ball.</p>
<p id="mnZOvl">Nikola Jokic turned the ball over — something you don’t see all too often — on the first possession of the game as Gradey Dick stole it and took it on the fast break. Dick’s layup unfortunately rolled out and despite a good attempt, Bruce Brown was unable to get the put back.</p>
<p id="QkY8j4">Jokic connected with his intended target the next time around and found Aaron Gordon in the paint for one of his signature dunks. The play opened the scoring and gave Denver their first lead of the game, but it didn’t last long.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Startin' out in style <a href="https://t.co/gQu9ugXWJw">pic.twitter.com/gQu9ugXWJw</a></p>— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) <a href="https://twitter.com/nuggets/status/1767358679110590646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="fdszHa">Starting point guard Bruce Brown found Olynyk on the perimeter where the big man knocked down a three and gave Toronto their first lead of the game. That would also not last very long, as both bigs would miss a three before a jumper from Jokic gave Denver the lead back. This time, they would keep it for a while.</p>
<p id="mGcheM">It was typical Nuggets basketball, running the offence through the offensive monster that is Nikola Jokic. He was finding Gordon in the paint for dunks, layups or drawn fouls, and their collective gravity drew in the Raptors defence to give Michael Porter Jr. a few good looks from three, knocking down two of them.</p>
<p id="tH2JDz">The Raptors offence was clicking as well, just not at the same level. With Quickley out, RJ Barrett and Kelly Olynyk were assisting Brown with the lead ball handler responsibilities, getting looks of their own and finding others for easy shots. </p>
<p id="f5Fj4Z">As seamless as the Nuggets offence was, the Raptors defence was better than expected too. Led by Gradey Dick with two steals in the quarter, the second of which resulted in a pull up three in transition to take the lead back with three minutes to go.</p>
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<p lang="es" dir="ltr">GRAD3Y <a href="https://t.co/TV305IrfPp">pic.twitter.com/TV305IrfPp</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1767362570816455158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="222R5X">Denver called timeout, but just couldn’t stop Toronto’s run. With Jokic on the bench and Dick and Brown the only Raptors starters on the court, Toronto continued to pull away with the lead. A 7-0 run across 90 seconds of game time was ended with a three from Christian Braun, but kept the Raptors in the lead at 34-32 at the end of the first. </p>
<p id="dXMURt">More than two minutes into the second quarter, Braun’s three was still the last points Denver scored. Jalen McDaniels, Jontay Porter — who turns out is the younger brother of Nuggets wing Michael Porter Jr. — and Barrett combined for an 11-0 Raptors run to open the second frame.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sort of speechless with the start to this game? <br><br>Raptors are SEVERELY undermanned against the defending champions and they’re forcing turnovers, running and shooting the ball well. Leading by 13!</p>— Esfandiar Baraheni (@JustEsBaraheni) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustEsBaraheni/status/1767365831116116010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="VsDMPG">Braun would once again end the run, this time off a layup from a Jokic pass. Again, it only spurred a large Raptors run. </p>
<p id="WNzJ5K">Across five minutes of playing time, Toronto went on an 11-4 run, increasing their lead to 18 points. A pair of buckets from Jokic and Gordon were not only matched, but exceeded by back to back threes from Gradey and Porter who assisted on the other’s basket. Dick’s three put the Raptors up by 20 and was added onto as he assisted on a layup from Ochai Agbaji.</p>
<p id="rA4eU0">Just under three minutes left in the half, Denver would repsond back with a smaller run of their own. Going 7-4, capped off by a three from Jamal Murray, the Nuggets drew back within 20 as Toronto led 68-51 entering halftime.</p>
<p id="7Xc7cc">At the half, Gradey Dick led all scorers with 15 points and two threes. Jontay Porter actually tied for the lead in threes with Dick, outscoring his older brother Michael who’s best known for his three-point shooting ability. Porter also led the team in assists with five, needing only one more to tie his career high.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jontay Porter has 8 points & a team-high 5 assists at halftime. He's 1 assist away from tying a career-high in assists. <br><br>Porter is a team-high +19.</p>— Keerthika Uthayakumar (@keerthikau) <a href="https://twitter.com/keerthikau/status/1767371852140187980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="Yx7jws">Starting the second half, Denver made up some ground. Jokic and Murray combined for their team’s first 13 points of the third quarter, but the Raptors were scoring as well. More specifically, Kelly Olynyk was scoring, as the Canadian big produced 10 of Toronto’s first 12 points of the second half. </p>
<p id="qGVVic">Four minutes in, the Nuggets had only clawed back two points off of the Raptors lead. Olynyk would continue to score and keep Denver at bay when it looked like they were drawing in close. </p>
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<p lang="ht" dir="ltr">RJ KELLY <a href="https://t.co/cZgEu57xll">pic.twitter.com/cZgEu57xll</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1767376606945796211?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="qRwH08">The game continued back and forth, Toronto neither extending nor losing ground on their lead until roughly the five minute mark. Jokic was sent to the line and knocked down both free throws, spurring a 13-3 Denver run across three minutes of play. </p>
<p id="IN3XPh">The run let all of the air out of Toronto’s tires, which wasn’t helped by the cheers of the home crowd. Then, a put back from life-long Raptors fan Jordan Nwora gave Toronto some life back. The Raptors forced Jokic to miss a jumper which led to Porter’s game-leading fourth three of the night, bringing the lead back to 10 points.</p>
<p id="18Q1a6">The three ball would end up being Toronto’s final points of the quarter, as Denver kept up with the pressure. Jokic and Reggie Jackson led a 7-0 run in the final minute of play and all of a sudden, the lead was down to five points entering the fourth quarter, 98-93 Toronto.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nuggets go on a 20-8 run to end the 3rd. Raptors still lead by 5. Jontay working on a career-high. <br><br>The vibes are high but the game is slipping</p>— Esfandiar Baraheni (@JustEsBaraheni) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustEsBaraheni/status/1767382138368790716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="HH5Ypr">No one scored for nearly a minute to start the fourth. Reggie Jackson extending his scoring streak to six consecutive points when he opened the scoring with a short jumper, cutting the lead to three. Barrett responded, bringing it back to five and drew the foul on the bucket, bringing it up to six.</p>
<p id="OlSvUj">He nearly extended it to seven after Murray brought it back to four, but a three point miss led to a Peyton Watson three. Just like that, it was a one point game early in the fourth quarter.</p>
<p id="tr601n">A Bruce Brown layup would be the only points for the next minute and also gave RJ Barrett a career high in assists with 10. A drive from Barrett then led to a jump ball that thankfully ended up in a Raptors possession after it deflected off of a Denver player when trying to gain possession. </p>
<p id="HXmOQk">Jamal Murray would break the scoreless draught with a left-handed layup, bringing the game back to within one and causing a Raptors timeout. </p>
<p id="jHJAcM">Out of the timeout, a pair of baskets from Jalen McDaniels kept the Raptors in front, but an insane string of possessions from Jamal Murray nearly brought it back to a tie.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">3 straight possessions of absurdity from Jamal Murray <a href="https://t.co/4oHfEEbP8G">pic.twitter.com/4oHfEEbP8G</a></p>— Esfandiar Baraheni (@JustEsBaraheni) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustEsBaraheni/status/1767385594466816457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="oevH2J">Nearly a minute of scoreless basketball ensued before, who else, but Jamal Murray with a clutch floater that gave Denver its first lead since the first quarter. </p>
<p id="GPOojB">The basket ignited the Nuggets, who took that one point lead and extended it to five off baskets and a block from Jokic and Gordon. Toronto would then call another timeout.</p>
<p id="4fz7MA">The Raptors came out of it regrouped, with Gradey Dick setting a career high with seven assists, Agbaji getting in on the scoring and Barrett not letting the team go down without a fight. However, they were completely outmatched by the championship level two man game of Jokic and Murray.</p>
<p id="XaZbYU">The duo scored or assisted on all but one of Denver’s final 13 points, and led the way to the comeback win as the Raptors lost 125-119.</p>
<p id="sKzHFt">The loss was expected with the amount of injuries the team was dealing with and having to play an opponent of this calibre on home court, but how we got there was a complete surprise. </p>
<p id="FpnhPS">The resiliency and fight from the undermanned Raptors was not only exciting to watch, but instilled hope for the future of this team once they get fully healthy for next season and their young players take another step in their development.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This DIME from <a href="https://twitter.com/gradey_dick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gradey_dick</a> ! <a href="https://t.co/BfmS55Jflv">pic.twitter.com/BfmS55Jflv</a></p>— NBA Canada (@NBACanada) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBACanada/status/1767388150383390939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="Bdl5y5">Gradey Dick posted a career high in assists and was all over the court tonight. Scoring, setting up plays and getting defensive stop, the former 13th overall pick looks to be coming into his own and becoming exactly the player Masai Ujiri and Bobby Webster envisioned when they selected him last summer. </p>
<p id="xo8Eiw">RJ Barrett built upon his already improved playmaking abilities with a career high in assists of his own. Bruce Brown had what was likely his best game as a Raptor to date, posting a double double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Last, but certainly not least, what a game from Jontay Porter. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Really cool moment for Michael Porter Jr and Jontay Porter. <a href="https://t.co/NeA55wPIJV">pic.twitter.com/NeA55wPIJV</a></p>— Esfandiar Baraheni (@JustEsBaraheni) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustEsBaraheni/status/1767390470341083209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="tPyBxk">Playing against his older brother Michael Jr., Jontay had maybe his best career NBA game. He fell one assist shy of tying his career high, led the game in threes with four and added a two pointer for 14 points combined. </p>
<p id="7RToAO">While it falls as another loss in the column, leading the reigning champions for much of the game despite missing six players shows the culture Darko Rajakovic is building in the locker room and that the future is bright for the Toronto Raptors.</p>
<p id="Epba0W">The team has one more stop on their road trip, facing Detroit on Wednesday night before returning home for a matchup against Orlando on Friday.</p>
https://www.raptorshq.com/2024/3/11/24098066/recap-toronto-raptors-vs-denver-nuggets-final-125-119Alex Higgins2024-03-11T20:52:10-04:002024-03-11T20:52:10-04:00Matchup: Toronto Raptors vs. Denver Nuggets — Start Time, Lineups, and More
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<p>The Raptors visit Denver to take on one of Canada’s top talents and the reigning NBA Champions.</p> <p id="jf13vE">Two members of Canada’s Senior Men’s National Team will face off tonight as the Toronto Raptors visit the reigning NBA Champions, the Denver Nuggets.</p>
<p id="b1MDmM">RJ Barrett of the Raptors is from Mississauga and Jamal Murray of the Nuggets from Kitchener, both having grown up as fans of the Toronto Raptors. Tonight, one will play for them, and one will play against them. In four months, however, they’ll be playing together with Team Canada in Paris at the 2024 Summer Olympics.</p>
<p id="8cc2ri">It’s a matchup we weren’t sure we’d be getting, as Barrett was a late scratch from Saturday night’s overtime loss to Portland as he was dealing with an illness. The Canadian wing was on the injury report all day long but has been confirmed as starting for the Raptors tonight.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here's who's available for the Raptors tonight:<br>RJ Barrett<br>Gradey Dick<br>Javon Freeman-Liberty<br>Kelly Olynyk<br>Ochai Agbaji<br>Jontay Porter<br>Jalen McDaniels<br>Jordan Nwora<br>Garrett Temple<br>Jahmi'us Ramsey</p>— Keerthika Uthayakumar (@keerthikau) <a href="https://twitter.com/keerthikau/status/1767280591248953516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a>
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<p id="A0cnkl">Speaking of the injury report, it looked more like a laundry list today for Toronto. Six Raptors have been ruled out for tonight’s game as Immanuel Quickley, Gary Trent Jr. and Chris Boucher all found themselves banged up after the hard-fought comeback to push Saturday’s game into overtime.</p>
<p id="kdqZqT">The longest tenured Raptor in Toronto’s lineup tonight will actually be rookie Gradey Dick, who makes only the third start of his young NBA career. Bruce Brown draws back into the lineup after a four game absence and is listed as the team’s point guard tonight, likely drawing the matchup against Murray.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fun fact: Gradey Dick has played 43 games for the Raptors, the most of any player available to play for Toronto tonight against Denver.</p>— Keerthika Uthayakumar (@keerthikau) <a href="https://twitter.com/keerthikau/status/1767281040052166894?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a>
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<p id="BVKnsJ">Kelly Olynyk in only his 13th game with the Raptors will draw a tough matchup of his own as he is listed as Toronto’s starting centre. Another member of the Canadian men’s national team, Olynyk is the unfortunate soul who has the responsibility of trying to defend two-time NBA MVP and reigning Finals MVP Nikola Jokic.</p>
<p id="WbdTHQ">The Canadian centre has his work cut out for him as the tallest player available for Toronto outside of himself is Jontay Porter, who’s played a grand total of 44 minutes of NBA basketball since January 30th. Porter had quite a decent run as the Raptors backup centre throughout the month of January but has had little action since then.</p>
<p id="y2hHX8">It’ll be a tough one tonight for a heavily depleted Raptors team, so all we can hope for is an exciting game where no one else gets injured!</p>
<p id="MTM8EH"><strong>How to Watch:</strong></p>
<p id="ydi4zn">Sportsnet at 9:00 pm ET</p>
<p id="sbsivk"><strong>Likely Lineups:</strong></p>
<p id="0sYD6W">Toronto: Bruce Brown, Gradey Dick, Ochai Agbaji, RJ Barrett, Kelly Olynyk</p>
<p id="L3jBhM">Denver: Jamal Murray, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, Nikola Jokic</p>
<p id="QASNoU"><strong>Injuries:</strong></p>
<p id="XHAfGA">Toronto: Scottie Barnes (out — hand), Chris Boucher (out — knee), DJ Carton (out — ankle), Jakob Poeltl (out — hand), Immanuel Quickley (out — hip), Gary Trent Jr. (out — groin)</p>
<p id="6guOOp">Denver: Vlatko Cancar (out — knee)</p>
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https://www.raptorshq.com/2024/3/11/24098017/matchup-toronto-raptors-vs-denver-nuggets-start-time-lineups-and-moreAlex Higgins2024-03-11T17:52:15-04:002024-03-11T17:52:15-04:00Toronto Raptors vs. Denver Nuggets: Preview, TV Schedule, Injuries, and More
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<figcaption>Photo by Andrew Lahodynskyj/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Raptors visit Denver amid a growing list of injuries.</p> <p id="JVsRok">We’ve had quite the injury report updates so far today. The Raptors were already set to look significantly different from the last time they faced the Denver Nuggets back in December, but now they’re even more depleted.</p>
<p id="m9YWiX">Of the five Raptors who played 30+ minutes in their overtime loss in Portland on Saturday night, Gradey Dick and Kelly Olynyk are the only two available for tonight’s matchup.</p>
<p id="cVRCIZ">In better news, RJ Barrett will likely return to the lineup after missing Toronto’s last game as a late scratch due to an illness. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">More than half of the Raptors' roster (8 of 15 players) now appears on the injury report for tonight's game vs Denver. The latest:<br><br>Quickly: O (hip)<br>Trent: O (groin)<br>Boucher: O (knee)<br>Barnes: O (hand)<br>Poeltl: O (hand)<br>Carton: O (ankle)<br><br>Barrett: P (illness)<br><br>Brown: Q (knee)</p>— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) <a href="https://twitter.com/JLew1050/status/1767253657882345674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a>
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<p id="6R42DI">Only time will tell us who will actually suit up for the Raptors tonight, as the team is already down to only nine players NOT ruled out, with Bruce Brown still listed as questionable after missing the past four games.</p>
<p id="JUrSjP">The reigning champions were already going to be a tough out on home court where they’re tied for the second best home record in the league, but now ever more so with most of Toronto’s starters missing the game. </p>
<p id="OhUBV3">Tonight may be good, however, for those tracking the Raptors’ draft pick odds. Only 1.5 games up on Memphis, the Raptors need their 2024 first round pick to be in the top six picks of the draft in order to keep it and not send it to San Antonio to complete the Jakob Poeltl trade. If the Grizzlies were to pass Toronto to finish the season, their odds to win the first overall pick would increase by 1.5% and their odds to retain their pick would be even higher.</p>
<p id="MTM8EH"><strong>How to Watch:</strong></p>
<p id="ydi4zn">Sportsnet at 9:00 pm ET</p>
<p id="sbsivk"><strong>Likely Lineups:</strong></p>
<p id="0sYD6W">Toronto: Bruce Brown, Gradey Dick, Ochai Agbaji, RJ Barrett, Kelly Olynyk</p>
<p id="L3jBhM">Denver: Jamal Murray, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, Nikola Jokic</p>
<p id="QASNoU"><strong>Injuries:</strong></p>
<p id="XHAfGA">Toronto: Scottie Barnes (out — hand), RJ Barrett (probable — illness), Chris Boucher (out — knee), Bruce Brown (questionable — knee), DJ Carton (out — ankle), Jakob Poeltl (out — hand), Immanuel Quickley (out — hip), Gary Trent Jr. (out — groin)</p>
<p id="6guOOp">Denver: Vlatko Cancar (out — knee), DeAndre Jordan (questionable — illness)</p>
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https://www.raptorshq.com/2024/3/11/24097546/toronto-raptors-vs-denver-nuggets-preview-tv-schedule-injuries-and-moreAlex Higgins