Knicks vs Raptors – A High-Stakes Battle with Key Absences

Knicks vs Raptors – A High-Stakes Battle with Key Absences

Knicks vs Raptors – A High-Stakes Battle with Key Absences

The New York Knicks and the Toronto Raptors faced off in a highly anticipated matchup on February 4, 2025, and the game had all the makings of an intense battle. But before tip-off, there was already a major shake-up—Toronto’s rising star RJ Barrett was ruled out due to concussion protocol. That meant the Raptors would have to take on one of the hottest teams in the league without one of their best players.

Barrett, who has been enjoying a breakout season in his first full year with the Raptors, has been averaging 21.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.7 assists—career-high numbers across the board. His absence was a huge blow, especially considering he was set to face his former team, the Knicks, in what would have been a statement game.

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Despite missing Barrett, the Raptors came into the matchup with momentum, fresh off a 115-108 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. But history wasn’t on their side. The Raptors hadn’t beaten the Knicks in over two years, with their last victory dating back to January 22, 2023. Meanwhile, New York came into the game riding a wave of confidence, having won seven of their last eight games, including a 124-118 win against the Houston Rockets just the night before.

Leading the charge for the Knicks was Jalen Brunson, who has been playing at an All-Star level all season. The star point guard dropped 42 points and 10 assists against the Rockets, surpassing Carmelo Anthony for third place in Knicks history for most 40-point games. His backcourt leadership has been instrumental in keeping New York among the Eastern Conference’s elite, sitting at 33-17 and ranked third in the East. Brunson wasn’t alone—Karl-Anthony Towns has been dominant in his first season with the Knicks, averaging 24.3 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists while securing his own All-Star starting spot.

The Knicks have been a force to be reckoned with, ranking fourth in the NBA in scoring at 117.9 points per game. However, they were also dealing with an injury concern of their own. OG Anunoby, who was traded from Toronto to New York in December, was sidelined with a sprained foot. His status was day-to-day, leaving the Knicks with some uncertainty in their starting lineup.

With both teams missing key pieces, the game became a test of depth and resilience. Could the Raptors break their losing streak against the Knicks without Barrett? Or would Brunson and Towns continue their dominant run and extend New York’s winning ways? Either way, this matchup was bound to deliver some serious action on the court.

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