Raptors Cage

Post Game: Toronto Raptors snap 4-game losing skid against Celtics

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John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Toronto Raptors are back to their winning ways after defeating the Boston Celtics 109-96 at home. After dropping four straight games, the Raptors got a much needed win under their belt to right the ship. In a balanced team effort, Toronto was led by Kyle Lowry and Lou Wiliams who both scored 19 points. Canadian Kelly Olynyk put up a strong performance pouring in 23 points against the team from his native land; but it simply wasn’t enough. The Celtics are a team that lacks talent, not heart and they outworked the Raptors early on. If it wasn’t for the renewed effort on the defensive end to start the second half, the Raptors might’ve been looking at their fifth straight loss. The next game for Toronto is Monday night against the red hot Detroit Pistons who’ve won 8 of their last 10 games. They’re sure to be looking for revenge after James Johnson went and did this to them last game. Damn that was nasty.

Offence: B

Toronto’s offence was average tonight, yet they put up 109 points. The Raptors had the right idea to start the game as they tried to get Jonas Valanciunas involved early on. The only problem with that was every shot he took was forced. Jonas was decisive and didn’t let the ball die but he should’ve looked for the re-post and kick-out opportunities when Tyler Zeller was able to get him out of his spots. Ultimately Jonas came out strong in the second half and finished with 15 points and 7 rebounds. JV was one of the reasons the Raptors were able to establish a lead. Toronto didn’t have the best shooting night, finishing the game at 45% from the floor. On a positive note the Raptors were able to get the ball moving which allowed them to put up 91 shots in the game and finish with 23 assists.

Defence: B+

The Raptors held the Celtics to 96 points on 47% shooting. The Celtics do not have a reliable scorer after shipping Jeff Green to Memphis, so the Raptors shouldn’t have allowed Boston to score so many points. The Raptors were up 20 at a point and almost let the Celtics right back in the game. There was a turnover by Greivis Vasquez that resulted in a Boston dunk where Dwane Casey should’ve called a timeout. Vasquez didn’t demonstrate any urgency to stop the offensive player on what could’ve became a contested and potentially missed field goal attempt. It’s those plays that show where the head of a team is at. There were many occasions where Toronto appeared disoriented, losing their assignment and visibly frustrated. Toronto needs to figure out what has to be done internally to get this squad performing like the elite defensive team they know they can be.

Rebounding: B-

The battle on the glass tonight was won by the Raptors 48-43 with Toronto pulling in an impressive 15 offensive rebounds. Although the Raptors won the rebounding game, it was giving up crucial rebounds that almost allowed the Celtics to get back into the contest. Complete focus is going to be necessary for this team moving forward if they hope to keep their status as a team to be respected.

Game Ball: James Johnson

Tonight’s game ball goes to James Johnson who had a strong double-double against the C’s. Johnson finished with 15 points 10 rebounds and another nasty cock-back dunk. He put it all out on the floor today and it rubbed off on the rest of his teammates. Keep doing what you’re doing James. You rock…don’t ever change.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_noVG2-Nw1I

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