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Raptors find their rhythm in the fourth quarter
The Toronto Raptors are proving to be a force to be reckoned with as they sharpen their skills in the fourth quarter, leading to crucial victories. In their latest matchup against the Indiana Pacers, the Raptors outscored their opponents 29-27 in the final period, securing a 122-111 win.
This marks Toronto’s second consecutive victory and their third win in four games, showcasing a significant turnaround in their late-game performance.
Scottie Barnes, who has emerged as a key player for the Raptors, contributed seven points in the fourth quarter, while RJ Barrett added six and Jakob Poeltl chipped in with nine.
Barrett expressed confidence in the team’s ability to close out games, stating, “I think we’re just starting to figure out how to win some of these games at the end.” This newfound confidence is evident as the Raptors have been able to maintain leads, even when faced with pressure from opposing teams.
Strategic timeouts and focused execution
During the game, the Raptors faced a challenge when the Pacers closed the gap to just a possession after an 8-0 run. Head coach Darko Rajakovic called a timeout to regroup his players. Barrett noted that Rajakovic remained calm during the timeout, allowing the team to refocus and execute their game plan effectively.
Rajakovic emphasized the importance of concentrating on one possession at a time, which proved to be a pivotal strategy in their victory.
Rajakovic remarked on the team’s improved execution in the final minutes, stating, “I thought that our execution down the stretch in the last four to five minutes was really, really good.” This focus on execution is crucial, especially considering that the Raptors have struggled in close games earlier in the season, with eight of their 15 losses coming by six points or fewer.
Dynamic duo: Barnes and Barrett
Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett have formed a dynamic partnership on the court, sharing playmaking responsibilities and complementing each other’s skills. With starting point guard Immanuel Quickley recovering from injury, the duo has stepped up to fill the void.
Barnes, who scored a career-high 35 points in the game, acknowledged the importance of their collaboration, stating, “We did a great job locking in, getting stops, the stops that were really needed.” Their chemistry is evident, as Barrett nearly reached 30 points for the fourth consecutive game, showcasing their ability to score and create opportunities for one another.
As the Raptors continue to build momentum, their ability to execute in high-pressure situations will be vital for their success moving forward. With a focus on teamwork and strategic play, Toronto is positioning itself as a formidable contender in the league.
