The Toronto Raptors had a chance to steady things heading toward the playoffs, yet another tough night ended in frustration as Toronto fell 122 to 111 against the New Orleans Pelicans on March 11 in New Orleans.
The loss stings even more considering the Pelicans entered the night well below .500. Toronto had moments where it looked like they could take control, especially late in the third quarter and early in the fourth when the deficit shrank to just a couple of points. New Orleans responded with a decisive run and never let the Raptors get any closer.
The game stayed fairly competitive through the first half. Both teams traded scoring runs and Toronto kept the pressure on. New Orleans found its rhythm after halftime and used a strong third quarter push to create separation. The Raptors tried to answer but defensive lapses and second chance opportunities allowed the Pelicans to keep building their lead.
Despite the loss, Toronto had several strong individual performances.
Immanuel Quickley led the Raptors with 25 points and kept the offense alive during several stretches when Toronto struggled to score. Brandon Ingram, playing against his former team, added 22 points and showed flashes of the scoring ability that made him an All Star earlier this season. RJ Barrett contributed 17 points while continuing to attack the rim and create offense for himself.
Toronto needed more from its star forward. Scottie Barnes finished with just 9 points and had difficulty finding his rhythm offensively for much of the night. When Barnes is aggressive and involved the Raptors look like a completely different team.
New Orleans received big performances from multiple players. Trey Murphy III delivered a huge night with 28 points and several timely three point shots that kept Toronto from gaining momentum. Dejounte Murray added 27 points and controlled the pace of the game with his playmaking. Zion Williamson chipped in 19 points while using his strength and speed to pressure Toronto’s defense inside.
Rebounding and defensive consistency also hurt Toronto. New Orleans dominated the glass and took advantage of extra possessions throughout the game, something that is very difficult to overcome on the road.
Where the Raptors Stand in the East
Following the loss, Toronto sits at 36 wins and 29 losses and has slipped to around the middle of the Eastern Conference playoff race.
First place in the East remains several games away. The top teams such as Boston and Milwaukee have held the lead for most of the season. Toronto would need a significant winning streak along with some help from those teams dropping games in order to realistically challenge for the top spot.
At this stage of the season the bigger concern may be maintaining playoff position rather than chasing first place. The Raptors have lost several recent games and the standings are tightening quickly as teams push toward the postseason.
What Needs To Happen
Toronto still has the talent to turn things around before the playoffs begin. The margin for error is getting smaller with each passing game.
Consistent scoring from RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Brandon Ingram needs to continue. The Raptors also need Scottie Barnes playing at his highest level since he remains the engine that makes everything work on both ends of the floor.
Defensive focus and rebounding will be just as important. Playoff basketball rewards teams that control the glass and limit mistakes. Toronto showed earlier this season that they are capable of playing that type of basketball.
Raptors fans want to believe this group can find another gear before the postseason arrives. The next stretch of games will reveal whether this team can rediscover the energy and focus that had them climbing the standings earlier in the year.
👏 Let’s Go Raptors 👏
