The Toronto Raptors got blown out of their own building by the Milwaukee Bucks 128-104.
Fully healthy starting five
There was a lot of excitement going into this matchup since the Raptors had a fully healthy starting five and their complete rotation available for the first time all season. However, this one turned out to be a train wreck as the Raptors’ defense fell apart after the second quarter and they could not keep up with the Bucks’ three-point shooting. RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes led the way in the starting lineup scoring 25 points and 21 points, respectively. But the rest of the starters and team for that matter did not give the Raptors much. Gradey Dick and Immanuel Quickley struggled to shoot the ball, combing for 22 points, Jakob Poeltl had 12 points and most of the second unit’s production came in garbage time. This was an embarrassing performance by a Raptors team that was finally at full strength.
Three-point shooting woes
This was a tale of two teams. The Bucks hit 22 of their 44 three-point attempts which accounted for 66 points. Meanwhile, the Raptors hit 9 of their 35 three-point attempts. The Raptors got outscored 66-27 from beyond the arc. The Raptors three-point shooting continues to be an issue. They rank 23rd in the league in that department. Toronto doesn’t have much consistent three-point shooting on the roster outside of Gradey Dick and Immanuel Quickley and they combined for 4-for-14 from deep. If the Raptors can’t hit threes, they won’t stand a chance most nights.
Roster evaluation
There are a lot of holes when it comes to this Raptors roster and they are highlighted in a game like this. Poor defense and shooting is a recipe for disaster and the Raptors are lacking in both areas. With the Feb. 6 trade deadline approaching, Toronto will have a full month to see what they have in this group and what other changes they need to make. Given how things stand, the Raptors might end up being aggressive sellers at the deadline. Chris Boucher and now Davion Mitchell have fallen out of the rotation and other veterans such as Bruce Brown and even Kelly Olynyk could be moved as well. Beyond the deadline this team will have its eyes on the draft as they are in need of more talent.
Next on tap
It’s only going to get tougher for the Raptors as they head to New York to take on the Knicks on Jan. 8.
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