The Toronto Raptors beat the Philadelphia 76ers 119 to 109 last night at Scotiabank arena. Gary Trent led the Raptors in scoring with 27 points. Pascal Siakam continued his excellent play with 20 points and 13 assists. Also, Scottie Barnes returned to the line up and had 16 points, 10 rebounds and five assists. Both Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey scored 31 points to lead the 76ers in scoring. Here are my pros and cons from last night.
Raptors Beat 76ers 119 to 109 – Pros
Assists and more Assists – The Raptors had 32 assists last night which was excellent. The ball was really moving. As a result, they shot 43.2 percent from the three point line as they were getting great looks. Also, they made a concerted effort to push the ball and this lead to easy assists and baskets. The starters accounted for 27 of the assists which is impressive. Also, all the starters had at least 15 points last night. It is nice to have three players in the starting line up (Siakam, Van Fleet and Barnes) that can facilitate the offense. If the starters can keep playing like this, it is going to be a successful year!
Boucher Makes a Big Difference – Chris Boucher really changes things for the Raptors for the better. When he was out the first three games, the Raptors bench really struggled. However, in the last two games and in particular last night, he helped stabilized the bench. He scored 13 points and was a plus 11. He and Precious Achiuwa together provide a nice punch for the bench. If Boucher was healthy the whole season, the Raptors would probably be undefeated right now. If the Raptors can get back Otto Porter Jr. soon, then the bench will look even better.
Raptors Beat 76ers 119 to 109 – Cons
Tyrese Maxey is a Problem – The Raptors had trouble with him last season in the playoffs and tonight was no different. He scored 31 points and attacked the Raptors from inside and outside. His quickness is a real problem for the Raptors in particular Fred Van Fleet who cannot stay in front of him. They are going to have to figure out a way to stay in front of him and let him be a shooter. When he penetrates, he creates havoc and gives his teammates lots of open looks. Hopefully the Raptors can figure out something by Friday.
Pascal and Fred’s Minutes are Too High – Siakam played 38 minutes and Van Fleet played 39.5 minutes which is too high. As seen last year, the wear and tear of heavy minutes caught up to them in particular Fred Van Fleet. Hopefully, Otto Porter Jr.’s return will help with that a bit but they still need someone on the bench who can facilitate the offense. Banton has been underwhelming and Malachi Flynn has shown some shooting but defense is a problem. Hopefully one of these two can take advantage of their opportunities. If not, it might be time to give Jeff Dowtin Jr. a look or might have to make a small trade at some point. However, it is still early.
Conclusion
Last night was a great win for the Raptors against a team favored to get to the NBA finals. However, they will get to play them again on Friday and it will probably be a lot harder as the 76ers will make adjustments. However, there is a lot to like from the Raptors so far and if they can get fully healthy, we perhaps can see what their potential really is. Looking for another spirited game on Friday!
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