Toronto Raptors Break Their Losing Streak, RJ Barrett Makes History

By Sam Rose

November 20 2024

 

The Toronto Raptors broke their losing streak defeating the Indiana Pacers Monday night in Toronto. The team was carried by RJ Barrett, who scored a season high 39 points,  That broke the record for the most points by a Canadian in Raptors history.  The record was previously held by Chris Boucher who scored 38 points in 2021.  Jakob Poetl also scored 30 points with 15 rebounds giving him his third straight double-double. 

Prior to the game Monday the Raptors came into the game with a 2-12 record,- the worst in the NBA this season. This was Toronto's first win since November 2nd against the Sacramento Kings in overtime. Montreal’s own Benedict Mathuin of the Pacers scored 28 points with 17 in the fourth quarter, Obi Toppin scoring 19 points nearing a Pacers comeback. 

A bunch of Raptors remain on the injury roster including all-star forward Scottie Barnes, starting point guard Immanuel Quickley, forward Bruce Brown and backup center Kelly Olynyk. Barnes is currently recovering from an orbital fracture. Quickley is recovering from a partially torn UCL, Brown is recovering from knee surgery and Olynyk is suffering from a lumbar strain.

Scottie Barnes Injured - Sportsnet

An interview from the post game conference, RJ Barrett says he is grateful for Jakob Poetl, mentioning the centre is good at “setting a screen and then going” for the layup. Raptors Coach Darko Radjokovic says he Poetl is getting himself open and the team is getting the ball to him.  

For the pacers Tyrese Haliburton had a struggle with his offense, going 5 for 18 with his shot attempts and then 2 for 9 in three point attempts. 

The Raptors are having issues with turnovers giving up 20 within the first three quarters. They finished with 23 in this game against the Pacers. The Raps continue their season and host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday at 7:30 at Scotiabank Arena.