Separated in the Eastern Conference standings by one defeat, with the same total victories, the Raptors (11th to 9-14) and the Hawks (10th at 9-13) engaged last night in Toronto a duel of teams stuck in a bad dynamic (series of four consecutive defeats on both sides) in the soft underbelly of their conference.
A bad dynamic from which the Raptors are the first to escape, after a victory acquired with forceps against the formation ofAtlanta (135-128), at the end of a defenseless match between two clubs in distress in this area recently. To avoid a fifth loss in a row, and instead inflict it on the Hawks, the Raptors actually made their attack do the talking, although not their strong point this season…
In the spirit of an excellent Pascal Siakam (33 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists), Darko Rajakovic's players shot 58%, including 53% from 3-point range (18/34), despite 14 turnovers. Opposite, the defensive level was still distressing, and the attack, productive with five players with 12 points or more alongside a Trae Young sparkling (35 points and 17 assists), could not compensate. Especially since the Raptors raised their voice in defense at certain key moments in the third quarter, turning the match around (39-29 in favor of the locals).
Without really reassuring, the Raptors are getting their heads above water, while the Hawks continue to sink…
WHAT YOU MUST REMEMBER
– A victory but concerns that remain for Toronto. If the essentials are assured for the Raptors, who finally stop the bleeding after four losses in a row, we cannot say that there is reason to celebrate. Because despite a brilliant attack, undoubtedly the most complete performance of their season in this area, the players of the Canadian club fought and only won by 7 small points, the fault of a defense which has continued to worry since now a fortnight. The good news is that the schedule is still lenient for a few days: a second reception of the Hawks on Friday, then that of the Hornets next Monday. Then, we will have to face Denver then Philadelphia at the end of next week… The Raptors still have a way to go to fully regain serenity.
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How to read the stats? Min = Minutes; Shots = Successful shots / Attempted shots; 3pts = 3-points / 3-points attempted; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; O = offensive rebound; D=defensive rebound; T = Total rebounds; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal fouls; Int = Intercepts; Bp = Lost balls; Ct: Against; +/- = Point differential when the player is on the field; Pts = Points; Eval: player evaluation calculated from positive actions – negative actions.
