"During this stretch where Toronto has won 12 out of their last 13 games, they have been a well-oiled machine offensively, led by the brilliance of Brandon Ingram. But the most impactful change has been the improvements on the defensive end that came after their woeful start on defense where they were a bit too focused on pressuring the ball."
"Toronto will still be without RJ Barrett tonight and starting in his place is Ja'Kobe Walter. Walter was brilliant defensively in his first start last game against the Cleveland Cavaliers and particularly on Donovan Mitchell, and tonight he will be needed against Andrew Nembhard. Walter's screen navigation and lateral movement will be key against the shifty Nembhard. Walter has scored 35 points over his last 4 games, which is more points than he scored over the first 8 games of the season."
"Brandon Ingram dropped a season high 37 points last game, and he was in such a groove offensively it was special to see. Ingram will have his opportunities again tonight against another weaker defender in Bennedict Mathurin or Ben Sheppard. Toronto's defense led by Scottie Barnes should also be able to limit the Pacers efficiency on offense due to their lack of spacing and ample creation as well."
Toronto Raptors have won eight straight games and seek a ninth tonight against the Indiana Pacers. Toronto has gone 12-1 over the last 13 games, powered by a potent offense led by Brandon Ingram and defensive improvement after an early focus on over-pressuring the ball. The Raptors are 13-5 with strong offensive and defensive efficiency and a +6.8 net rating. RJ Barrett remains out, and Ja'Kobe Walter starts, providing lockdown defense, screen navigation, lateral movement, and recent scoring (35 points in four games). Ingram scored a season-high 37 points recently and will attack weaker defenders such as Bennedict Mathurin or Ben Sheppard.
Read at Raptors Republic
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