By Justin Batiste
Toronto defeats Indiana in spite of the not having Kawhi Leonard
Tonight, was an eastern conference matchup between the second seeded Toronto Raptors and the third seeded Indiana Pacers. Raptors forward, Kawhi Leonard was out tonight due to rest. Although, the Raptors didn’t have forward, Kawhi Leonard, they still managed to pull out a win at home.
Three point shooting, defense and bench play were vocal points to the Raptors victory tonight. The Raptors shot 51.5 percent from the three point line. Guard, Danny Green led the way by making five three’s on eight attempts. Both teams played well tonight, but it was the three point shooting of the Raptors that separated the two. Every time the Pacers seemed to be inching their way into the game, Toronto would hit a crucial three to pull away. Indiana only shot 23.5 percent from three, but shot 45.7 percent from the field.
Toronto’s bench played great tonight. Guard, Norman Powell especially. Powell finished the game with 23 points on 10-12 shooting. The Raptors scored a total of 56 bench points, three players finished in double figures off the bench. The starters for the Raptors also played well. The entire starting five scored in double figures. Forward, Serge Ibaka led all starters with 18 points.
Not only were the Raptors solid on the offensive end, but they were solid on the defensive end as well. The Raptors were highly active tonight, finishing the game with 9 steals and 4 blocks. The Raptors played with outstanding energy tonight, from start to finish. Indiana played a good game also, however, Toronto made more winning plays than Indiana. Three point shots and steals that led to points to be specific.
The Raptors will now improve to 30-12, and will host the Hawks on Tuesday at 6:30 PM central time. The Pacers will visit the Cavaliers on Tuesday. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM central time.
