Raptors Aim to Extend Winning Streak Against Struggling Nets

The Toronto Raptors are experiencing a resurgence this season. Currently positioned second in the Eastern Conference, they are six games above .500. Having won nine of their last ten games, including six consecutive victories, the Raptors are in formidable form as they prepare to face the struggling Brooklyn Nets.

Upcoming Matchup: Raptors vs. Nets

The Raptors will look to extend their winning streak on Sunday against the Nets. The game is scheduled to air on Sportsnet ONE and Sportsnet+ at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT. Toronto is coming off an impressive 140-110 victory against the Washington Wizards, which allowed them to secure a spot in the elimination stage of the NBA Cup.

Raptors’ Recent Performance

• Winning Streak: The Raptors are riding a six-game winning streak.
• Scoring Efficiency: They rank second in offensive rating (122.9) and fifth in defensive rating (109.2).
• Key Statistics:
  • Best assist-to-turnover ratio: 2.27
  • Third-best effective field-goal percentage: 59.6
  • Third-best true shooting percentage: 62.8

Brandon Ingram leads the team with an average of 21.1 points per game, shooting 49.6% from the field. RJ Barrett follows closely behind with 19.6 points per game on 50.7% shooting. In addition, Scottie Barnes contributes significantly, averaging 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. Barnes has also improved his three-point shooting, hitting 41.4% of his attempts.

Injury Updates

The Raptors will be without center Jakob Poeltl due to ongoing back pain. He has contributed 11.3 points and 7.7 rebounds this season. Rookie forward Collin Murray-Boyles is returning to the lineup after recovering from a right MCL sprain.

Nets’ Current Struggles

The Brooklyn Nets are not faring as well this season. They currently hold a 3-12 record and have been reliant on Michael Porter Jr., who is averaging a career-best 24.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. In their recent game against the Boston Celtics, Porter scored 33 points, showcasing his potential despite the team’s struggles.

Younger Roster and Future Draft Picks

The Nets are in a rebuilding phase, fielding a young and inexperienced squad. Their roster includes four first-round picks from the 2025 NBA Draft: Egor Demin, Nolan Traoré, Ben Saraf, and Danny Wolf, though none have made a significant impact yet.

Key Takeaways

As the Raptors aim to maintain momentum against the Nets, they must capitalize on their recent success. Winning against a struggling team like Brooklyn will be crucial in solidifying their position among the top teams in the Eastern Conference.