(Washington) Fred VanVleet had his best game of the season with 33 points and the Toronto Raptors won their fifth straight game Wednesday, winning 109-100 ahead of the Washington Wizards.
VanVleet also had six assists.
After grabbing a defensive rebound, veteran VanVleet crossed the field and his stride shot gave Toronto a 105-97 lead, with 2:28 on the clock.
After Spencer Dinwiddie missed a long-range shot, one free throw from VanVleet and two free throws from Khem Birch got the Raptors to their destination.
“This year I have more responsibility in terms of getting us to take good shots,” said VanVleet, referring to the departure of Kyle Lowry.
“I’m the cranky 27-year-old, if you can believe that,” he added with a smile. I talk to them loudly all day. But you know, these guys give it their all. They are not intimidated during matches. ”
VanVleet also spoke about the chemistry that is developing in the group.
“We build a bond of trust every day,” he said. It’s the beauty of a young team, to see them grow. I enjoy playing with them.
“I like where we are, but you have to realize that there is a long way to go. ”
For the very first time in their history, the Raptors (6-3) won their first four games played abroad.
OG Anunoby had 21 points and three steals, supported by 15 points each for Svi Mykhailiuk and Gary Trent.
“Everyone is involved, everyone helps each other,” said Mykhailiuk, which is proving more and more like a good acquisition, at the end of August.
Precious Achiuwa grabbed 10 rebounds and signed a dunk hard-hitting, which allowed the visitors to wrap up the third quarter ahead 86-77.
The half had ended with the Raptors leading 59-48, after Trent had a last-second basket (and a free throw).
In the final quarter, the Raptors helped their cause with an 8-0 push, taking the lead 101-86. Anunoby capped that push off with a three-point shot.
Toronto was again very strong in defense, especially with 10 steals.
The team entered the game at the top of the NBA in this regard with 11.1 steals per game, on average.
“We’re putting the pressure on and the guys are playing hard,” said coach Nick Nurse. We’re pretty consistent and on offense we become more efficient. ”
Reservist, Birch collected nine points.
“Khem had some big, loose shots and some very timely offensive rebounds,” said Nurse. He also makes very good screens. ”
Scottie Barnes was missing a second game in a row with a sprained right thumb.
The Raptors will reunite with their fans on Friday night, against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Bradley Beal got 25 points for the Wizards, who were so far undefeated in three home games.