Toronto Raptors added the fourth consecutive win. The Canadian team achieved this with an easy victory against Minnesota Timberwolves with a scoreboard of 125-102. With this result they are now with a six place secure. However, they are also fighting for the fifth place on the East Conference (now occupied by Chicago Bulls). The guys of Nick Nurse are doing a second half of season simply incredible. Is not enough for them and is obviously that they will keep fighting until they have playoffs position insured.
Toronto started the match with some problems, especially in the attack positions. Minnesota did a nice start of game and they dreamed with a comfortable night. After a great two quarters of away team (with an advantage of 17 points) they were 23-40 down. Then, the local team reacted and they started to grow up in the match. At the end of the first half and with a triple of VanVleet, Toronto Raptors completed a quick and beautiful comeback. Nevertheless, this comeback was not enough and they did a second half much more overwhelming.
Minnesota did not have a good second half and they advantage of local team inflated. Toronto moved the ball very well, the team was precise on the triple shots (18/36) and they saw how 7 of their players ended the match with double digits. The people at Scotiabank Arena saw an advantage until 27 points. The fans saw a growing team by big steps.
The MVP of the game was Gary Trent Jr. with 29 points. Also he completed a 6 out 8 in triples. OG Anunoby did a good performance too with 22 points. The, the rookie Scottie Barnes scored 17 points, nothing bad new for him and his team. On Minnesota, just Anthony Edwards was up to the task with 24 points. Others players like Karl-Anthony Tows and D´Angelo Russell (with 16 and 13 points respectively) did not complete an acceptable game for players of their level.
The level of Minnesota in the last weeks is worrisome. After had a very good streak and stay on playoffs, the team lowered the rhythm. They have a balance of 1-4 and it is clear that Toronto will have to play the play-in. So they are now on the seventh position.
Jorge Barbero
