You know when you go through a painful breakup, and block your ex on everything, except you still have mutual friends? So then you end up seeing each other a few times per year at events?
That’s basically what it’s like when Pascal Siakam comes to town with the Indiana Pacers. The breakup was amicable and we didn’t actually block Siakam on anything — but man, seeing him in that Pacers jersey stings. We miss him. Seeing him at the party — er, game — makes us think about all that could have been…
Instead, we gotta think about what is ahead for the Toronto Raptors. These games make it easy, proving that the injured Raptors team can hang with playoff teams. It makes you think about how good this squad could look if Scottie Barnes was playing.
Speaking of Batman Barnes, his new mask-era nickname, Coach Darko told the media today before the game that he is set to visit the doctor tomorrow, and could soon be cleared to play. Until then, we merely have to enjoy his courtside fits.
Tonight was another one of those “fun” games. Like genuine entertainment from the Raptors, who won! Thrilling!
The team had a 15 point lead over the Indiana Pacers in the second quarter. While the lead was back to 12 at halftime, Toronto was able to keep it in double digits, leading 69-57 after two.
It got more fun too, as the Raptors proceeded to go up nearly 20 over the Pacers — mind you, this is a playoff calibre Pacers squad.
Here is where the sad part comes in. Jamal Shead takes a huge fall right onto his hands, ends up in severe pain, and heads to the locker room. It didn’t look good from my view. Raptors severely missing PGs right now.
Luckily Shead returned to the bench shortly after, but did not re-enter the game. Waiting for an update.
The Raptors worked hard to maintain their 10-ish point lead through the fourth quarter. In the end it paid off with a 130-119 win over the Indiana Pacers.
Let’s get into some highlights of the team’s third win of the season:
RJ Barrett
What a night for the Canadian! 39 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists — the highest points in franchise history in a single game by a Canadian. RJ was everywhere — 4-8 from three-point range, active in the paint, passing.
Thinking back to when he was traded to the Raptors, it’s wild to think about how far RJ has come. Back then, he was seen as an “add-in” to the trade — with Quickley as the focus. Now, Barrett is just as important (if not more so currently with IQ out).
Jakob Poeltl
Jakob Poeltl has been ON FIRE for the past two weeks. Absolutely dominating in the post — which apparently Darko has been pushing hime to do. After the game, Darko mentioned that he spent the summer trying to motivate Poeltl to be more physical under the hoop. He says now the big man finally seems to believe he can do it.
He had 30 points, 16 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks in the win against the Pacers.
Garrett Temple
The “old head”, as Barrett lovingly called Garrett Temple after tonight’s game, was hustling tonight. 38 year old Temple was all over the floor today — literally. He was diving for loose balls, shooting three’s, motivating his teammates.
He’s the certified leader of this young team — every player adores him. He leads by example, encourages the young players to use their voices, and helps not only the team but the coaches as well, as Darko mentioned.
Tonight he played nearly 11 minutes, due to the fact that the Raptors’ injury list is a little lengthy these days. He scored 3 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 1 blocks, and was +9 on the night — the only bench player who was in the positive.
The Raptors achieve a third win this season, and more importantly are higher than the 76ers in the standings. That’s a win in my books.
They are back Thursday!
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