Despite a double-digit lead in their last matchup, Toronto faltered in the final frame. Now, they have the opportunity to shore up the defence and take one back.
The Raptors will play host to Portland for their second and final matchup of the season tonight, the first of a back-to-back home stand. The last time out, the Blazers were able to fight back from a deficit and gain the lead in the final two minutes of the game. Despite the loss, the Raptors had five players in double figures.
By the looks of it, Barnes and Poeltl, two of the strongest performers in the first outing won’t be available tonight, so the onus will fall to the Raptors who touch the court to pick up the slack. It would be no surprise to anyone if RJ is one of the guys to step up. After resting on Tuesday against the Bulls, he will be looking to add to his 31-point performance on Sunday vs. Philadelphia. Hopefully he will continue to prove his scoring, passing, and defensive abilities tonight.
Shead has also been a pivotal player, averaging almost 10-3-5 in March, earning him a nomination for the East Conference Rookie of the Month. His ability to facilitate the offence has been solid so far this year, and he could also be a difference maker in this game.
The Blazers will also be missing a significant amount of talent, with many of the same players on the bench as the first game. This time, Anfernee Simons also may not be available, who led all scorers with 22 points. They will have to look to Shaedon Sharpe and Deni Avdija who both managed 30+ point performances on Tuesday. A positive note we might expect is a little bit more of Dalano Banton. When Portland hosted the Raptors a couple weeks ago, Banton only saw 4 minutes of action. He posted a solid 11-7-5 against the Hawks on Tuesday though, laying the groundwork for an opportunity against his former team tonight.
The key to this matchup for the Raptors will be to force the Blazers to make mistakes and limit their own in the fourth quarter. Forcing 20 turnovers and drawing 20 fouls the last time, Toronto was able to gain extra possessions that helped them build their initial lead. Unfortunately, they developed their own bad habits, especially in the final frame. Shoring up their ball movement and limiting defensive lapses will prevent any opportunity for Portland to make their way back into this game.
While already eliminated from playoff contention, they will continue to use their final games of the season to build chemistry and provide opportunities for the rookies and bench to develop. With excellent performances from Shead, Walter, Mogbo, and Battle lately, it’s exciting to see how the future of the team continues to develop.
Where to Watch
On TSN at 7:30 pm ET.
Probable Starters
Toronto: RJ Barrett, Ja’Kobe Walter, Orlando Robinson, Jamal Shead, Ochai Agbaji
Portland: Donovan Clingan, Shaedon Sharpe, Deni Avdija, Dalano Banton, Toumani Camara
Injury Report
Toronto: Scottie Barnes (Questionable: Joint contusion), Ulrich Chomche (Out: MCL tear), Gradey Dick (Out: Bone bruise), Brandon Ingram (Out: Ankle sprain), Jakob Poeltl (Out: Rest), Immanuel Quickley (Out: Rest), Jared Rhoden (Questionable: Joint sprain)
Portland: Deandre Ayton (Out: Calf strain), Sidy Cissoko (Out: Ankle sprain), Jerami Grant (Doubtful: Knee inflammation), Scoot Henderson (Out: Concussion protocol), Bryce McGowens (Out: Rib fracture), Anfernee Simons (Questionable: Forearm contusion), Robert Williams III (Out: Injury management).