Bell Center | Raptors defeat Wizards 125-98

Chris Boucher and Kyshawn George were warmly received by the crowd on Sunday at the Bell Center as the Toronto Raptors defeated the Washington Wizards 125-98 in an NBA preseason game.

The two players, who have roots in Montreal, were introduced to the crowd moments before the initial puck drop, taking the microphone to say a few words to the 21,900 spectators – a packed house. Fans saved their loudest cheers for Boucher.

Boucher, who was not retained in the Raptors’ starting lineup, collected 13 points and recovered six balls under the baskets. George, whose father Deon was born in Montreal, had eight points and three rebounds for the Wizards.

Both players entered at the same time with 6 minutes 11 seconds left in the first quarter. Boucher played for 18 minutes and George for 21 minutes.

It was only a preseason game, but the Raptors, buoyed by the energy of the crowd, started the game strong. They led 13-4 after a few minutes of play, 34-16 after the first quarter, and 49-22 about halfway through the second.

RJ Barrett was one of the catalysts for this great start. The young Raptors veteran totaled 17 points in just 14 minutes of play, but left the game shortly before the end of the first half with a right shoulder injury.

The Wizards cut the lead to 56-38 at halftime, but the Raptors managed to maintain the lead until the final whistle.

The Wizards, who highlighted their visit to Montreal by replacing their name with “Wizards” on their jerseys for the warm-up period, will play their next game Wednesday against the Knicks in New York, before welcoming the Raptors to Washington on Friday.

Several personalities were present at the Bell Center for this match. Former Raptors player Vince Carter, as well as Victoire de Montréal players Marie-Philip Poulin and Laura Stacey, were notably present. They were all warmly welcomed by the spectators.