Raptors Eye Sixth Straight Win Against Struggling Wizards
The Toronto Raptors are heading into a crucial matchup tonight, looking to extend their winning streak to six games as they face off against the Washington Wizards in an NBA Cup showdown. Sitting at 10-5, Toronto has been playing some of its best basketball of the season, coming off a convincing 121-112 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. With another win tonight, the Raptors would not only secure first place in East Group A but also earn their first appearance in the NBA Cup knockout round—a milestone that the team is eager to achieve.
After a stretch where 10 of their first 15 games were played on the road, the Raptors are finally back at Scotiabank Arena, beginning a four-game homestand that will see them host the Wizards, Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Indiana Pacers. While the Cavaliers currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference, the Wizards, Nets, and Pacers occupy the bottom three spots, combining for a record of just 5-38 this season. This favorable schedule presents Toronto with a prime opportunity to close the gap on East-leading Detroit Pistons, who sit at 13-2.
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The Raptors’ recent success has been fueled by exceptional ball movement. In Wednesday’s win over Philadelphia, the team recorded 33 assists on 45 field goals, showcasing the fluid, team-oriented offense that has become their hallmark. Toronto now ranks fourth in the NBA with 30.1 assists per game, just behind the league-leading Atlanta Hawks. This approach has helped them achieve the eighth-best offensive rating in the league at 117.8.
Brandon Ingram has been a key contributor, leading the team with 22 points against the Sixers and averaging 20.9 points per game on nearly 50 percent shooting so far this season. Scottie Barnes has emerged as a defensive force, recording career highs in both blocks and steals, while head coach Darko Rajakovic has leveraged the team’s depth to maintain a high-energy style, forcing 21 turnovers against Philadelphia alone.
The Wizards, meanwhile, are struggling mightily this season with a 1-13 record, hoping to end a 12-game losing streak. Their only win came early against the Dallas Mavericks, and they are dealing with injury concerns, including a doubtful Marvin Bagley III and questionable Alex Sarr. Second-year guard Kyshawn George has been one of the few bright spots for Washington, averaging 17.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game.
Toronto will be without rookie Collin Murray-Boyles, who is sidelined with a knee injury. Even with that absence, the Raptors enter the matchup as clear favorites, looking to maintain momentum, secure a spot in the NBA Cup knockout round, and continue their march toward becoming one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference this season.
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