The Toronto Raptors got routed by the New York Knicks 139-125.
RJ Barrett returns
After missing the last two games, Barrett returned from an illness to take on his former team. He put up a solid stat line and provided the Raptors with some much needed scoring. In 33 minutes of action Barrett scored 23 points on 7-for-13 shooting from the field to go along with 6 rebounds and 6 assists. He did a great job of getting to the free throw line 11 times, making 8 attempts. Barrett and Scottie Barnes who did look much better in this game, scoring 24 points, led the way for Toronto. However, the Raptors couldn’t contain New York’s high-octane offense.
O.G. Anunoby masterclass
Anunoby had a huge game. His offensive outburst propelled New York to this blowout victory. Anunoby was on fire hitting his first 10 shots. He finished the game with 31 points on an insane 13-for-15 shooting from the field. On one of his makes he hit Barnes with a spin and then hit a step-back jumper. Anunoby hit four three-pointers and hauled in 7 rebounds. The Raptors simply had no answer for him as he led the way along with Karl-Anthony Towns who also erupted for 31 points. Anunoby had one of his best performances of the season against his former team.
Ja’Kobe Walter looks solid
In a rebuilding season with a lot of losing (the Raptors have now lost 8 games in a row), fans have to find positives. One positive has been the play of rookie Ja’Kobe Walter who had another impressive showing. Walter moved back to the bench with the return of Barrett, but he still put up 16 points in 25 minutes. Walter got to the line 10 times, hitting 8 free throws. He was everywhere in this game. On one possession in the first quarter Walter launched himself on the floor which led to a Raptors fast break bucket. He’s a fearless player who has a great knack for the ball. The 20-year-old has been fun to watch.
Next on tap
The Raptors will head to Memphis during Christmas for a date with the Grizzlies on Dec. 26.
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