The Toronto Raptors were simply outmatched by the Milwaukee Bucks 130-112.
RJ Barrett’s impressive playmaking
Barrett has made significant progress with his playmaking this season. Barrett had 8 assists in the Raptors’ win over the Boston Celtics and he continued to work the passing lanes against the Bucks. He made some smart decisions and good reads, which included nice passes to Scottie Barnes and Kelly Olynyk. Barrett finished with 21 points and 10 assists in 29 minutes of action. Unfortunately, the Raptors needed more offensive production from Scottie Barnes who finished with just 10 points on 0-for-6 shooting from three.
Too much to handle inside
The Raptors were overpowered in this one. The Bucks attacked the paint and drew fouls throughout the game. Mose of the damage inside came from Giannis Antetokounmpo who the Raptors could not contain. Antetokounmpo had 12 free throw attempts in the first half alone as the Bucks had 27 attempts to the Raptors’ 10 at the half. The Raptors defense broke down this game and allowed the Bucks to live at the charity stripe. Milwaukee finished the game with 41 free throw attempts. As for Antetokounmpo, the Raptors did a great job of limiting his in their last meeting but that was not the case in this one. Antetokounmpo finished with a game-high 35 points to go along with 13 rebounds.
Solid bench showing
Jonathan Mogbo was recalled from the G League and was back in the rotation with Ochai Agbaji sidelined. He had 4 points in 16 minutes. However, it was the veterans who led the way for the Raptors from off the bench. Kelly Olynyk had his best game of the season scoring 15 points on 5-for-7 shooting from the field and Bruce Brown was solid as well, adding 17 points in 20 minutes. They were a big reason why the Raptors were hanging around in the third quarter.
Next on tap
The Raptors will be off for the next 3 days before they take on the Orlando Magic on Jan. 21 at Scotiabank Arena.
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