The Toronto Raptors kicked off 2018 in thrilling fashion against the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday night. DeMar DeRozan took things over early scoring 21 of the team’s 35 first quarter points. Perhaps there was no bigger sign of what was to come than DeRozan’s explosive start to the game. The former All-Star took charge and would score 31 more points to surpass Vince Carter for the franchise record in points per game. DeMar DeRozan’s record setting 52 points were a key factor in the Raptors gritty overtime victory against the Milwaukee Bucks. “MVP” chants filled the Air Canada Centre when DeRozan calmly set the Raptors scoring record. Kudos to the Milwaukee Bucks. Toronto’s Eastern Conference foe stuck around all night and refused to back down. Monday’s contest marked another highly entertaining
DeMar DeRozan’s record setting night was no fluke. The former All-Star made 17 of his 29 attempted field goals and shot an impressive 5-9 from three-point range. DeRozan’s three-point shot has come along very nicely thus far and he is beginning to become a more reliable threat from long distance. Believe it or not, he also led the Raptors in assists, with 8. With just under two weeks left for NBA All-Star Game voting, now would be a good time for Raptors fans around the world to cast their vote for DeMar DeRozan.
In the midst of the California native’s scoring outburst, Kyle Lowry also had a superb game. Lowry finished the game with 26 points as well as, 8 assists and was an impressive +11. Toronto’s All-Star duo combined for 78 of the Raptors total 131 points which, translates to 59% of Toronto’s total points. The Raptors also set another franchise record with their 12th straight win at home. Overall it was quiet the historic night at the Air Canada Centre one which has surly set the bar high for the Raptors in the new year.
Next up on the schedule is a matchup against the Chicago Bulls. Toronto has historically struggled to win games in the city of Chicago however, after Monday’s victory the Raptors will be as confident as ever. Wednesday’s road game against the Bulls should provide an excellent matchup between Serge Ibaka and Bulls rookie standout Lauri Markkanen. Rumor has it that DeMar DeRozan is looking to score at least 60 points against the 12th seeded Bulls. You can catch Wednesday’s game at 8:00 PM EST. Once again, a much deserved congratulations is in order for DeMar DeRozan.
