After two disappointing losses to both the Thunder and Kings, the Raptors snap their two game losing streak, by defeating the Philadelphia 76ers by a score of 72-90. With tonight’s victory, the Raptors now improve to 2-2 four games into this six-game home stand. Although their bench was short (with injuries to both Ross and Kleiza), the starters impressed, as each and every one of them finished with double-digits scoring wise.
Rebounding: A+
With Andrew Bynum still sidelined due to injury, the Sixers continue to lack any true rebounding threat. With that, the Raptors took advantage of Philly’s depleted front court, and out-rebounded this Sixers team by nine (46-37). Not only did the Raptors have a combined 21 rebounds from their own starting front court, they also got 11 rebounds from Landry Fields himself, who started for the first time since returning from injury.
Defense: A+
After allowing 104.5 points per game in losing their past two, the Toronto Raptors stepped up on the defensive end, and held the Sixers to scoring just 72 points. Most of all, the Raptors were able to contain point guard Jrue Holiday, who finished with a quiet 16 points, on just (7-18) from the floor. Holiday, who is the center point for this Sixers offense, was not able to penetrate any offense whatsoever, as Philly failed to get any consistent looks from the floor tonight.
Offense: B+
While shooting 49% from the field tonight, the Raptors scored just 90 points in tonight’s victory. The offense was quiet, yet efficient, as they tallied a total of 26 assists. Although Coach Casey wanted the Raptors to get out and run in transition, the Raptors did otherwise, running an efficient half-court set. With Philly lacking any defensive presence inside, the Raptors took advantage of that, and got their front court involved. Davis and Johnson quietly picked apart the Sixers’ interior, as they combined for 36 points, and 21 rebounds.
Game Ball: Tonight’s game ball goes to Jose Calderon, who finished with 14 points (7-12 shooting), and 11 assists. Calderon, who out-played his counterpart Jrue Holiday tonight, was able to execute a solid tempo for the Raptors on the offensive-end in tonight’s victory. He was clutch hitting a couple tough jumpers in the 3rd quarter, when the Sixers went on a run, and was yet again the floor general tonight, as he has been for most of the year.
