Post Game Report Card: The Streak Continues, Raptors Bump Off the Knicks on the Road

The Toronto Raptors (21-32) were able to extend their winning streak to four games by knocking off division rival the New York Knicks (32-18). What was supposed to be an exciting offensive matchup between Rudy Gay and Carmelo Anthony turned into an exchange of brick after brick, making this game hard to watch at some moments. The Raptors lost starting point guard Kyle Lowry near the end of the 3^rd quarter and were able to pull out a victory heading into the All-Star break on a positive note.

Offence: C+

This was not a pretty offensive game by any means. The Raptors shot 43% over the course of the game. The matchup between the Baltimore Boys, Carmelo and Rudy combined 20% from the field. The Raptors came on late with some crucial buckets from John Lucas III. Hopefully this break will get the team some much needed practice time.

Defence: A

Just a solid effort, the definition of a “Pound the Rock” game. The Raptors held the Knicks to an abysmal 35% shooting tonight, locking down All-Star forward Carmelo Anthony and friends. The commitment to transition defence late in the game was key for this Raptors win. Andrea Bargnani is an underrated man to man post defender (not help), take notice people. Great all around effort especially after losing Lowry.

Rebounding: D

When Jonas Valanciunas and Amir Johnson combine for 10 rebounds, theres obviously a problem. The Knicks ou-trebounded the Raps 52-35. The Raptors got absolutely crushed on the glass against beasts like Tyson Chandler, Carmelo and Amare Stoudemire. If it wasn’t for the crap shooting, the result of this game could’ve been a lot worse.

Game Ball:

Game ball in this matchup goes to Alan Anderson 10-16FG who came off the bench and lit up Madison Square Garden. Of all the people to put on a show in the mecca of basketball it would be Alan Anderson. He connected on 6 of his 8 three point attempts combing with Lucas to give the Raps a spark in the backcourt. After struggling for a couple games since Rudy came into town, he seems to be back to his old chucking self, but in a good way.

Photo Cred:  (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)