The Toronto Raptors made it back to .500 after a big win against the Dallas Mavericks.
Toronto had six players in doubles figures, which was needed against a strong Mavericks team. Pascal Siakam led the way, bouncing back after some early season struggles. He had 31 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists. The Raptors attacked the paint, scoring 72 points inside with Dallas having no rim protection.
O.G. Anunoby backed up Siakam with 26 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists. Continuing to show how valuable of a player he is on both sides of the ball. Mavericks star Luka Doncic had 31 points, but Anunoby made him work for it as he shot 11-26 from the field and 2-10 from 3.
One of the main concerns about this Raptors team was bench production. Leading the charge for the bench is Gary Trent Jr. and he has struggled offensively to begin the year. But, Wednesday was a nice bounce back game for Trent Jr.
In 26 minutes, the guard scored 16 points on 6-11 from the field and 4-8 from distance. With not many scoring options off the bench, Toronto is relying on Trent Jr.’s scoring ability to keep the team afloat when the starting lineup needs a breather.
To put into perspective, Trent Jr. is averaging 10.4 points, 2.5 assists and 0.9 assists on 36.9% from the field, 35.7% from deep and 40% from the free throw line. Scorers always have their fair share of struggles, but this was not an ideal start for Trent Jr. to begin his 2023-24 campaign.
The Raptors were going against a Mavericks team that was 6-1 heading into Wednesday and for Trent Jr. to be able to be a key part of Toronto’s win, that may bode well for his confidence.
The team is going to need his bench production moving forward, if this team wants to be competitive and make it back into the playoffs.
Next up for the Raptors
Toronto looks to make it three wins in a row as they finish their road trip against the Boston Celtics.
The Raptors will have two days off before playing the Celtics on Nov. 11.
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