In a thrilling performance that snapped a seven-game losing streak, RJ Barrett exploded for a season-high 39 points, leading the Toronto Raptors to a 130-119 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Monday night.
The win was a much-needed one for a Raptors team that entered the contest with the NBA’s worst record at 2-12, and it marked their first victory since beating the Sacramento Kings in overtime on November 2.
Barrett’s stellar shooting effort was the highlight of the night, as he went 13-for-21 from the field, including 4-for-8 from three-point range, and 9-for-12 at the free throw line. His offensive firepower was complemented by his rebounding, as he grabbed nine boards. The win not only halted Toronto’s losing skid but also provided a much-needed confidence boost for the Raptors, who have struggled to find consistency this season.
Jakob Poeltl Continues Dominance with Another Double-Double
Jakob Poeltl delivered another impressive double-double performance, contributing 30 points and 15 rebounds for the Raptors. This marked his third consecutive double-double, showcasing his value to the team as a reliable presence in the paint. Poeltl’s rebounding ability was particularly crucial in controlling the game’s tempo and limiting Indiana’s second-chance opportunities. His efforts on both ends of the court helped Toronto secure the win despite some sloppy play.
The Raptors also got solid contributions from their supporting cast. Gradey Dick chipped in with 15 points, while both Ochai Agbaji and Davion Mitchell finished with 11 points each. With all five of Toronto’s starters scoring in double figures, the Raptors were able to spread the wealth and avoid relying too heavily on one player to carry the offense.
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Benedict Mathurin’s Late Surge Not Enough for Pacers
On the other side of the ball, the Pacers had a valiant effort from Benedict Mathurin, who scored 17 of his game-high 28 points in the fourth quarter. His offensive explosion gave Indiana a spark, but it ultimately wasn’t enough to overcome Toronto’s balanced attack. Mathurin’s scoring burst helped keep the Pacers in the game during the final minutes, but the Raptors’ defense stiffened at crucial moments to preserve the win.
Pascal Siakam also played a significant role for the Pacers, contributing 25 points and 10 rebounds in his first game against his former team. Siakam’s experience and scoring ability were vital for Indiana, but the Pacers couldn’t overcome Toronto’s hot shooting and strong rebounding effort. Obi Toppin also contributed 19 points, with nine of those coming in the fourth quarter, as he tried to spark a comeback, but the Pacers couldn’t find a way to slow down the Raptors’ offense.
Key Injury for Pacers: Myles Turner Sidelined
The Pacers were without Myles Turner, who sat out due to a sore right calf. Turner had been a key contributor in the team’s previous games, including a season-high 34-point performance in a win over the Miami Heat. His absence was noticeable, as the Pacers struggled to find consistent scoring in the paint without their defensive anchor and primary inside presence.
Turner’s absence highlighted the Pacers’ depth issues, especially against a Toronto team that was playing with a renewed sense of urgency. Indiana’s reliance on players like Mathurin, Toppin, and Siakam was evident, but without Turner, the Pacers lacked a reliable shot-blocker and rim protector to challenge Toronto’s aggressive attack.
Haliburton Struggles with Efficiency in Loss
Tyrese Haliburton, who had been a bright spot for the Pacers this season, struggled with his shooting efficiency in this game. Haliburton finished with 16 points on 5-for-18 shooting, including a poor 2-for-9 performance from three-point range. This marked the fourth time in six games that Haliburton had missed nine or more field goal attempts. His struggles were a significant factor in the Pacers’ inability to keep up with the Raptors, as Haliburton’s usual ability to create for both himself and his teammates wasn’t on full display.
Haliburton’s inefficiency, combined with the absence of Turner, put too much pressure on the other Pacers’ players to step up. Despite the efforts of Mathurin and Toppin, the Pacers could not overcome the Raptors’ offensive onslaught and defensive rebounding dominance.
Key Moment: Barrett Responds with Crucial 5-0 Run
The game’s key moment came with just under seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. After a layup from Mathurin cut the Raptors’ lead to 106-99, the Pacers were starting to gain momentum and look poised for a comeback. However, Toronto called a timeout, and out of the break, Barrett took over. He scored a quick three points, sparking a 5-0 run that pushed the Raptors’ lead back to double digits, effectively quelling any hopes of an Indiana comeback.
Barrett’s clutch play during this stretch was critical in restoring Toronto’s confidence and staving off the Pacers’ rally. His ability to score in multiple ways, including from beyond the arc and at the free-throw line, was key in sealing the win for the Raptors.
Turnovers and Sloppy Play Plague the Raptors
Despite the win, the Raptors had their share of issues, particularly with turnovers. Toronto committed 23 turnovers in the game, which resulted in 24 points for the Pacers. The Raptors were especially sloppy in the third quarter, where they recorded 10 turnovers alone. This turnover-prone play could have easily cost the Raptors the game, but their offense was strong enough to offset the mistakes.
Toronto’s ability to maintain its offensive rhythm and still secure the win despite the turnover woes was a positive takeaway for the team. However, they will need to clean up their ball control if they hope to build on this victory and avoid repeating these mistakes in future games.
Raptors’ Home Court Advantage: All Wins at Scotiabank Arena
The victory marked Toronto’s third win of the season, with all three of those victories coming at home. The Raptors have struggled on the road, currently sitting at 0-8 in away games. Their performance at Scotiabank Arena, however, has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season. This win over Indiana was crucial for the Raptors, as they continue to search for consistency and identity as a team.
Looking Ahead: Pacers to Face Rockets, Raptors Host Timberwolves
For the Pacers, the road ahead doesn’t get any easier, as they visit the Houston Rockets on Wednesday. Indiana will need to find a way to bounce back from this defeat, especially with key players like Haliburton and Turner facing uncertainty in terms of their health. The Pacers will look to regroup and avoid a further slide down the standings.
Meanwhile, the Raptors will return home to host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday. Toronto will look to build on their momentum from this win and attempt to string together some victories to improve their position in the standings. The Raptors will need to maintain their offensive flow while tightening up defensively to ensure they don’t fall back into old habits.
Conclusion: Raptors Finally Break Skid, Barrett Shines in Big Win
In the end, RJ Barrett’s 39-point performance and Jakob Poeltl’s dominant double-double were the driving forces behind the Toronto Raptors’ much-needed victory over the Indiana Pacers. Despite some turnover struggles and an early deficit, the Raptors were able to capitalize on key moments in the second half to secure the win. With all five starters scoring in double figures and Barrett leading the charge, Toronto will look to build on this victory as they attempt to turn their season around. For the Pacers, it’s back to the drawing board after another tough loss, as they look to rebound in their upcoming game against the Houston Rockets.
