Final Score | Raptors 905 113, Windy City Bulls 95 | Box Score
Two Ways: Shamorie Ponds (905), Oshae Brissett (905), P.J. Dozier (Bulls), Max Strus (Bulls)
Out: Dewan Hernandez (905), Sagaba Konate (905), Justin Reyes (905), Adam Mokoka (Bulls), Bol Bol (Bulls)
The Raptors 905 have won their second consecutive game after beginning the season 0-4. The blowout victory comes behind another monster performance from Devin Robinson, who finished with 25 points and 8 rebounds before resting for the majority of the fourth quarter. Foul trouble had Tyler Ennis,Toronto’s primary ball handler, spending the third quarter on the bench, but the addition of Justin Anderson and a nearly healthy roster made the absence of Ennis far less noticeable.
The Good:
Chemistry: A half-court pass from Tyler Ennis to Matt Morgan in the first quarter showcased the 905’s rapidly developing chemistry, as did a pocket pass from Paul Watson Jr. to Devin Robinson under the basket. Despite being a member of the 905 for just one day prior to Tuesday’s game, Justin Anderson fit seamlessly into Toronto’s system, catching a bullet pass from Duane Notice and sinking a three-point shot.
Muscle: The Windy City Bulls were the larger team, but what the 905 lacked in size, they made up for in strength. Toronto accumulated 7 total blocks, including a chase-down block in the first quarter by Justin Anderson on Milton Doyle, and 49 total rebounds.
Ball Movement: An issue in the previous 5 games was ball movement, particularly when the two-way players were on the court. This time, as noted by head coach Jama Mahlalela, all players worked to get each other involved and to keephancing drugs in these cookies, just love, and now a sprinkle of superstition.
The Bad:
Foul Trouble: Had the team been as thin as they were in the last few games, Tyler Ennis entering the second half with four fouls could have been a major concern. Fortunately, with Duane Notice, Shamorie Ponds, and Jawun Evans all available, the concern was minimal. While not usually a positive sign, foul trouble for Ennis indicates that he is becoming more comfortable with physicality.
Superstition: The advanced analytics don’t lie. The Raptors 905 are only successful after I bring them cookies. Coach Jama has insisted that I never stop baking, and at this point I am as committed to continuing the win streak as I am to reminding everyone how many weeks ago the Toronto Raptors won the NBA Championship (24 weeks as of tomorrow).
Bol Bol: We didn’t get to see him.
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