Last night the Toronto Raptors fought hard but ultimately fell 125 to 117 on the road against the Boston Celtics in a game that stayed close for much of the night before Boston pulled away in the second half. Even though the score didn’t go Toronto’s way, this was a game full of effort and competitive spirit.
How the Game Went
Toronto stayed in it through three quarters, and even though Boston had a lead, the Raptors kept cutting into it and had moments where it felt like they might flip the script. In the fourth quarter they battled back and got within striking distance, but Boston answered with the right combination of defence and shooting to hold off the comeback.
Standout Performances
For the Celtics, Payton Pritchard led the way with 27 points, eight assists and five rebounds, finding big shots and keeping Boston’s offence humming. Jaylen Brown also played a big role, finishing with 25 points, eight rebounds and seven assists and making key plays that helped Boston maintain its edge. Sam Hauser provided valuable scoring with 19 points, including several threes that kept the Celtics ahead when Toronto was threatening.
On the Raptors’ side RJ Barrett and Ja’Kobe Walter both scored 19 points, giving Toronto’s offence a spark when it needed one. Immanuel Quickley added a strong all-around performance with 17 points and 13 assists, running the offence and creating opportunities for his teammates. The Raptors knocked down several shots from beyond the arc and stayed competitive throughout.
Injuries and Lineup Notes
Toronto was missing several key players, including Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes due to injuries, and Jakob Poeltl continued to be out as well. Those absences were felt, especially in the paint and on the glass, even though the Raptors clawed back late in the fourth quarter.
RJ Barrett did leave the Boston game early and did not return after injuring his ankle midway through the fourth quarter. He limped off the court under his own power and went to the locker room where he did not return for the rest of the game. Before exiting, he had scored 19 points and contributed across the stat sheet.
Here’s what’s been reported about the situation:
- Barrett turned his left ankle when he rolled it after stepping on an opponent’s foot. He immediately went down, showed visible pain, and was helped off the court and into the locker room.
- He finished with 19 points, seven assists and four rebounds in 28 minutes before the injury ended his night.
- Head coach Darko Rajakovic said Barrett twisted his ankle and would be evaluated the next day to determine the severity.
- Barrett had been just six games back after returning from a long knee absence, making the injury especially frustrating.
He was not walking off seriously unable to move, but he was clearly injured and exited promptly for medical evaluation rather than staying in the game.
Where They Stand in the East
With this loss the Raptors’ record moved to around 23 and 16, keeping them competitive in the Eastern Conference but not in first place. They remained in the top tier of the league, but a couple games back in the chase for the top spot. The Eastern standings are tight, and every game matters as teams jockey for positioning heading deeper into the season. Staying even partially healthy and securing wins in close road games like this would go a long way toward keeping Toronto high in the standings.
What Needs to Happen Next
To bounce back and continue climbing the standings the Raptors will want:
- More depth availability as players return from injury so the rotation can operate with fresh legs and fewer minutes gaps.
- Maintain defensive intensity, particularly when it comes to limiting opponents’ second chances and key transition buckets.
- Stay sharp late, keeping pressure on both ends in close fourth quarter situations where the margin is small.
All those things can help put Toronto over the edge in games that stay close throughout the night.
Final Thoughts from a Long Time Fan
This was the type of road game where every possession matters, and even though the Raptors didn’t get the result they wanted, the effort was there from every guy in uniform. Quickley’s playmaking, Barrett’s scoring and Walter’s energy kept this game competitive deep into the fourth. Boston made big plays at the right times, but the Raptors showed resilience (even when shorthanded).
This loss stings, no question about it, but this team has battled through injuries and tough environments all season long. If they stick together, get healthier, and keep playing with this kind of heart, I truly believe they can flip outcomes like this into wins next time.
👏 Let’s Go Raptors 👏
