Raptors Secure Road Victory Against Bucks with Ingram Leading the Charge
The Toronto Raptors found their groove on the road, securing a 111-105 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum. This win marks their second consecutive triumph away from home, showcasing their growing confidence and cohesion on the court. Let’s delve into five standout statistics from this compelling matchup.
Playmaking Prowess
21 – Assists from Immanuel Quickley and Jamal Shead combined
The Raptors’ backcourt was pivotal in orchestrating the offense, as both point guards showcased their playmaking abilities. Immanuel Quickley led the way with 11 assists, while Jamal Shead contributed 10 off the bench. Despite facing challenges in scoring, their focus on setting up teammates proved instrumental in Toronto’s success. Notably, both Quickley and Shead managed to make an impact in under 30 minutes of play, highlighting their efficiency and the depth of the Raptors’ roster.
Ingram’s Scoring Surge
29 – Brandon Ingram’s point total
Brandon Ingram emerged as the offensive leader for the Raptors, dropping 29 points with an impressive shooting performance of 9-of-18 from the field. His accuracy extended beyond the arc, where he sank four of his six three-point attempts. Ingram’s strong start to the season is a promising sign for Toronto, as his continued excellence will be crucial for the Raptors’ aspirations in the postseason.
Dominance in the Paint
44 – Points scored by the Raptors in the paint
Toronto displayed a formidable presence inside, racking up 44 points in the paint against Milwaukee. Sandro Mamukelashvili and Scottie Barnes were particularly effective, combining to hit 18 of their 26 shots. Their scoring in the key was essential in establishing a commanding lead and ultimately securing the victory.
Struggles at the Free-Throw Line
66.6 – Raptors’ free-throw percentage
While the Raptors shined in many areas, their performance at the charity stripe left much to be desired. Converting only 14 of 21 attempts, the team achieved a free-throw percentage of 66.6%. To fully contend in the Eastern Conference, improving this aspect of their game will be crucial, especially as they currently rank 25th in the NBA for free-throw shooting.
Maintaining Control
95 – Percentage of time the Raptors held the lead against the Bucks
Toronto nearly wire-to-wire in the lead, handling a Bucks team that was missing star player Giannis Antetokounmpo due to a calf strain. This type of win is vital for building momentum, particularly on the road. It serves as a testament to the Raptors’ ability to capitalize against teams that are struggling, a skill that could prove invaluable as the season progresses.
The Raptors are proving to be a team to watch as they continue to build on their recent successes, with key players like Ingram stepping up when it matters most. As the season unfolds, their ability to maintain this level of play will be essential in their quest for playoff contention.
