The Toronto Raptors backcourt is good. I mean, really good.
The Raptors took down the Minnesota Timberwolves 111-104 for their 35th win of the season, already passing last year’s total.
Kyle Lowry had a triple-double, posting 20 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists. DeMar DeRozan poured in 25 points while adding 7 rebounds, and it’s absolutely incredible how well this tandem has played.
It’s a weird feeling, almost expecting a win from the Raptors. I wasn’t even excited after this – it was just another day at the office. I guess this is what winning tastes like.
Let’s get to the report card:
Offense – A
The Raps beat the T’Wolves at their own game in this one, running a high octane offensive attack. Steve Novak finished with a season high 15 points. Amir Johnson and Terrence Ross also had 15, while Greivis Vasquez chipped in 12. It was a treat watching the balanced attack tonight.
Defense – C
As mentioned, the Raps didn’t play their hard-nosed, defensive minded game. Instead, they played to the tempo that the Wolves like, however they outdid them. Kevin Love was Kevin Love with 26 points, while Kevin Martin added 20.
Rebounding – A
The Raps out-rebounded the Wolves 48-38, and the effort was balanced much like their offense. Jonas Valanciunas added 9 rebounds despite not being involved offensively, DeRozan grabbed 7, Vasquez had 6, and Salmons had 5. And of course, Lowry had 12.
Game Ball – Kyle Lowry
The numbers speak for themselves. He will have to keep it going tomorrow night in what projects to be a huge tilt against the Brooklyn Nets. Unfortunately, the Raps will not have the hero Patrick Patterson if another game winner is needed, thus Lowry and DeRozan will have to carry the load once again.
