The “Rudy Gay Era” begins in impressive fashion, as the Toronto Raptors demolished the Los Angeles Clippers, 98-73. With an anxious crowd at the Air Canada Center, anticipating the debut of newly acquired Rudy Gay, the Raptors, including Rudy Gay himself (who finished with a game high 20 points), did not disappoint at all. The Raptors had one of their most lop-sided victories all year, in what was a rather encouraging performance.
Offense: A+
The fans did not get pizza, but this was still a promising performance by the Raptors on the offensive end. They shot the ball with efficiency, and moved the ball tremendously, finishing with 30 assists. A big concern that I had, was seeing how Rudy Gay and DeMar DeRozan would coexist on the floor while playing together, but they sure looked fine to me. They combined for 39 ponts (16-33 shooting), and opened up the floor for the Raptors on the offensive side of the ball.
Defense: A+
Against a Clippers team who is filled with scorers all throughout their lineup, the Raptors did a heck of a job, and took care of business on the defensive end tonight. Although the Clippers were without Chris Paul tonight, the Raptors held the Clippers to scoring a season-low 73 points tonight, as well as shooting under 35% from the floor.
Rebounding: A+
Who needs Blake Griffin and Deandre Jordan, when you have Aaron Gray and Amir Johnson banging on the boards inside! The front-court duo for the Raptors were strong on the glass, as they combined for 28 out of the Raptors’ 45 rebounds.
Game Ball:
Despite a great debut by Rudy Gay, my game ball has to go to Amir Johnson. Playing with flu-like symptoms, Amir Johnson was the best Raptor on the court in my eyes. He finished with a double-double of 19 points and 16 rebounds, in “Michael Jordan-like” style.
Image Source: The Associated Press