Last night the Toronto Raptors got back on track with a solid 112 to 91 win over the Miami Heat in Miami. This was a big one (right before the holiday break) and it felt like more than just another win. After a couple tough losses, this victory reminded everyone that this Raptors team is still tough, competitive, and fun to watch.
How It Played Out
Toronto controlled the game from early on. Miami could not find an answer when the Raptors got rolling in the second quarter, and Toronto built a comfortable lead that they extended in the second half. They shot efficiently, defended with purpose, and looked like the team we’ve grown excited about this season.
Big Highlights and Who Scored
- Scottie Barnes led the show with 27 points and eight rebounds, making tough shots and playing with confidence again after a quieter outing in the last loss. He was efficient and physical all night long.
- Immanuel Quickley added 18 points, seven assists, and five rebounds, helping the offence stay fluid and sharp. His energy set the tone right from the jump.
- Sandro Mamukelashvili stepped up big off the bench with 14 points, six rebounds, and seven assists, showing what depth this squad has when Poeltl is out.
- Collin Murray-Boyles turned in one of his best games with 11 points and a career-high 12 rebounds, crashing the boards and giving Toronto extra possessions they needed to build and keep the lead.
- For Miami, Jaime Jaquez Jr. scored 21 points, and Norman Powell had 17, but the Heat simply could not match Toronto’s balance and depth on either end of the floor.
Are They Still Near the Top of the East?
Yes! With this win the Raptors improved to around 18 and 13 on the season, keeping them near the upper tier of the Eastern Conference standings. They were still close to second place in the East and within reach of first if they kept playing consistent basketball. This team has proven it can bounce back from a loss and respond with a performance like last night’s.
To truly chase first place, Toronto will need to keep building wins against teams around them and tighten up consistency on both offence and defence.
What Needs to Happen Going Forward
A few clear things stood out in this one:
• Get balanced scoring every night – last night we saw four Raptors in double figures, and that spreading of offensive responsibility is incredibly hard to slow down.
• Defensive effort matters – holding Miami to under 95 points shows what this group can look like when they’re locked in. When the defence plays with energy, the offence gets easier.
• Bench contributions are huge – with some regulars out, guys like Mamukelashvili and Murray-Boyles gave Toronto exactly the lift they needed.
Keep doing these things and this team won’t just stay near the top of the East — they’ll earn it.
Final Thoughts from a Long Time Fan
I have watched this franchise through lean stretches and seasons that felt aimless. Watching this Raptors group last night reminded me of the old thrill of believing. They played together. They shared the ball. They attacked the glass. They defended. Every piece contributed.
Seeing Scottie Barnes assert himself, watching Quickley make plays like a seasoned lead guard, and getting unexpected production from guys like Mamukelashvili and Murray-Boyles fills me with optimism about this season.
If they keep playing with this kind of effort and energy, imagine how good they could be in the spring. This feel-good win was exactly what this fan needed heading into the holidays.
👏 Let’s Go Raptors 👏
