The Toronto Raptors posted a big 114-104 win over the Washington Wizards on Sunday at Scotiabank Arena.
Thanks to this victory, the “Raps” (37-38) distanced themselves in the standings from the Wizards (33-42). The latter, tied with Bennedict Mathurin and the Indiana Pacers, are the best team outside of the playoff picture in the East.
Fred VanVleet has greatly helped the Toronto cause by returning to his good downtown habits. He made five of his nine 3-pointers, en route to a game with 29 points and seven assists.
Only OG Anunoby was more prolific, collecting 29 points. Jakob Poeltl meanwhile scored his 18th double-double of the season, with 12 points and as many rebounds.
Montrealer Chris Boucher contributed to the victory for his team by registering seven rebounds and six points in 22 minutes of action.
The Raptors started the game strong, but a tough third quarter, in which they were outscored 38-24, forced them to put their foot on the accelerator late in the game.
Center Kristaps Porzingis was the Wizards’ biggest offensive threat, as evidenced by his 26 points.
Sleeps discreetly in victory
At Moda Center, Luguentz Dort’s efficiency woes continued, but that didn’t stop the Oklahoma City Thunder from beating the Portland Trail Blazers 118-112.
The Montreal North native missed his six attempts from downtown and had just six points in 29 minutes of play. He was limited to seven points or less in three of his last four meetings.
Canadian Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, revelation of the year in the NBA, took charge of the Blazers by adding 31 points to the table.
Josh Giddey meanwhile was imperial around the ring for the Thunder, recovering 10 defensive rebounds, in addition to having scored 17 points.