Raptors Ride High on Eight-Game Win Streak
The Toronto Raptors have found their rhythm, celebrating an impressive eight-game winning streak. However, rather than succumbing to the pressure associated with such a hot run, the team is focused on maintaining a steady mindset. Forward Brandon Ingram encapsulated this approach, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey over fixating on milestones.
“I think it’s more enjoying the process. I don’t think one person in the locker room has talked about the streak,” Ingram stated. “Take it by day. Every day is an opportunity to get better. Just worry about the next opponent. Of course, it’s a good feeling. We know we’ve got to continue to do it so we can keep it going.”
Steady Focus Amid Success
While the Raptors have benefitted from a favorable schedule during this stretch, their focus remains singular. Guard Jamal Shead echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team’s commitment to a game-by-game mentality. “Same way we didn’t get swept up in the losing last year,” Shead remarked. “I think we just stay one game at a time. Stay positive with each other, and keep the message the same. It’s about winning. It’s about playing hard. It’s about doing all the right things to try to put us in position to win.”
This collective focus has fostered a selfless atmosphere within the team. Players are prioritizing the greater good over individual accolades, which has been pivotal in their recent success. “Everybody’s bought in. I think everybody on the team is selfless. We just want to win,” Shead added. “Whatever it takes, I think everybody is brought into what we’re doing. Nobody has an ego on the floor, off the floor. Really good at communicating in real time and talking about the game.”
Building Confidence for the Future
Starting the season on such a positive note not only boosts immediate morale but also lays the groundwork for future success. Center Jakob Poeltl expressed the joy that comes with winning, stating, “We’re having a lot of fun, yeah. Obviously, winning’s always more fun than losing. We have good chemistry this year, but we’ve had good chemistry throughout the past couple years, so I feel like the vibe in the locker rooms kind of stayed the same. But obviously, the winning is improving on those kind of things.”
As the Raptors prepare to extend their streak, they will face off against former teammate Pascal Siakam and the Indiana Pacers. Fans can catch the action at 7:30 p.m. ET in Scotiabank Arena, available on TSN Sports or via streaming on NBA League Pass. The energy surrounding the team is palpable, and they are poised to continue their pursuit of excellence, one game at a time.
