(Toronto) A very nice evening for the Raptors and their supporters: this is how we can sum up that of Thursday when Fred VanVleet was named to the all-star game, before Toronto signed a fourth win in a row by beating the Chicago Bulls 127- 120, in overtime.
Updated yesterday at 11:19 p.m.
VanVleet had 21 points shortly after learning he’s going to the All-Star Game on Feb. 20 in Cleveland.
“I’m just proud,” VanVleet said of his nomination. I take this with humility, but I am very honored. It reflects in a way the confidence in me and in my game built over time.
“To be recognized in this way is a very special moment for me and my family. I am grateful to be able to experience all of this. »
The Raptors have lost only once in six games.
“It’s a character-building win,” Raptors coach Nick Nurse said.
“As for Fred (and the All-Star Game), I’m very happy for him. He really deserves it for this season, but also for all of what he represents for the team.
“It’s a tremendous achievement. It’s an amazing story that just keeps getting better. »
Pascal Siakam scored 25 points. VanVleet, OG Anunoby and Scottie Barnes added 21 points each, five more than Gary Trent.
Chris Boucher added 16 points as a reserve, in addition to continuing to do well on defense.
The score after 48 minutes was 114-114. Barnes tied the game with an offensive rebound that came very close to passing the hoop, with seven tenths of a second on the clock.
In overtime, the rookie added a short field goal for 122-120, with 1:44 to go. Then, straight after Javonte Green stole a pass from VanVleet, Trent played the same trick on Ayo Dosunmu and netted a three-point shot, following a pass from VanVleet.
There were 15.3 seconds left. The Raptors then stayed the course, after Zach LaVine missed a chance.
VanVleet had nine assists and finished the game 6 for 6 from the free throw line.
Siakam also grabbed 13 rebounds, Precious Achiuwa 11 and Boucher 10.
Khem Birch was back after 10 games away. He broke his nose in Detroit on January 14.
The Raptors (27-23) ousted the Charlotte Hornets from seventh place in the East.
Toronto will play again tomorrow at home against the Atlanta Hawks.
Nikola Vucevic had 30 points for the Bulls (32-19), while DeMar DeRozan provided 28.