The Toronto Raptors demonstrated remarkable resilience Friday night, overcoming a sluggish start to secure a 109-97 comeback victory against the Atlanta Hawks in NBA Cup competition. Despite offensive struggles through much of the first half, the Raptors found their rhythm when it mattered most.
Second Half Transformation
Toronto's performance before halftime could only be described as lethargic, with the team managing just 44 points in the opening two quarters. Scottie Barnes didn't record his first basket until only 1:36 remained in the first half, and the team trailed by as many as 13 points at one stage.
The transformation after intermission was dramatic. The Raptors emerged from the locker room with renewed energy, quickly erasing what had been a nine-point halftime deficit. Their pace accelerated, confidence grew, and shots began falling consistently.
Toronto pulled within four points after three quarters before dominating the final period, outscoring Atlanta 36-20 in the fourth quarter to seal the important NBA Cup victory.
Balanced Scoring Attack
The Raptors showcased their depth with seven players scoring in double figures, led by Brandon Ingram's 20 points. RJ Barrett contributed 19 points while Immanuel Quickley added 18, and Barnes finished with 14 despite his slow start.
Every player who stepped on the court made meaningful contributions to the victory, which marked Toronto's fourth consecutive win and improved their overall record to 5-4.
Center Rotation Provides Spark
Starting center Jakob Poeltl struggled with foul trouble and defensive lapses in the first half, prompting coach Darko Rajakovic to turn to backup Sandro Mamukelashvili. The free-agent acquisition delivered immediately, providing 12 points and six rebounds in 21 minutes of action.
Poeltl returned in the second half to contribute significantly, finishing with 12 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double. The contrasting styles of the two big men gave Toronto different looks throughout the game.
Gradey Dick also emerged as an important contributor off the bench, scoring 11 points in just 13 minutes. The wing player hit a crucial baseline three-pointer that cut Atlanta's lead to two points during Toronto's third-quarter surge, marking his first back-to-back double-figure scoring games this season.
The victory gives Toronto control of their NBA Cup group with upcoming games against Indiana and Washington, both considered winnable matchups. The Raptors continue their five-game road trip Saturday night in Philadelphia against Joel Embiid and the 76ers.
