The Toronto Raptors put away the Brooklyn Nets 130-113 to snap their 11-game losing streak.
Immanuel Quickley returns
Welcome back IQ. Quickley made his long awaited return after missing the Raptors’ last 22 games with an elbow injury. The Raptors having a true point guard out there did wonders for their offense. Quickley was able to push the pace, make nice plays and took the pressure off everyone by allowing them to slide to their more natural role. Quickley erupted for 21 points and 15 assists in 32 minutes of action. He hit three threes and was a +23. Having Quickley back will open things up for the Raptors’ offense and things will look a lot more smooth.
Scottie Barnes dominates
As a result of Quickley returning, Barnes got to go back to his more natural position as a forward. He did not have to act as the de facto point guard and that greatly benefitted his game. Barnes did most of his damage inside going 9-for-10 in the paint. He was a perfect 7-for-7 at the rim. Barnes is at his best when he doesn’t force the three-point shot and only takes them as they come. He was very selective with his three ball in this one hitting 3 of 4 attempts. Overall, Barnes had his best game in a while scoring a game-high 33 points to go along with 13 rebounds and 5 assists on an efficient 14-for-18 from the field. With Barnes not being the primary ball handler, he can look to find his offense a lot more.
Raptors getting healthy
Don’t look now but the Raptors are almost at full strength. Bruce Brown was out due to injury management and RJ Barrett was out because of an illness. The Raptors are close to having a full starting lineup for the first time this season. It’s been tough to properly evaluate the Raptors when their starters have only played a total of 4 minutes together since 2024. However, hopefully in 2025 health is on the Raptors side and the starters can play a good amount of games together.
Next on tap
The Raptors will look to make it 2-0 in 2025 when they host the Orlando Magic on Jan. 3.
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