"After a few lackluster efforts to start the season, the Toronto Raptors are muscling up down low and making adjustments. The Raptors were outrebounded for four straight games after their season-opening victory over the Atlanta Hawks but have now put together back-to-back winning efforts on glass. Their defensive rotations were also visibly more connected in a 117-104 win over the Ja Morant-less Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday at Scotiabank Arena."
"Their defensive rotations were also visibly more connected in a 117-104 win over the Ja Morant-less Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday at Scotiabank Arena. Collin Murray-Boyles jumped Grizzles the second they managed to shake their initial checks. Scottie Barnes flew in from the weak side to pick off passes and stuff shots. Anytime the Memphis' offence started to find the sparks of an advantage, Toronto was quick to smother it - a welcome improvement from their abysmal start."
"The Raptors ran a clean sideline out of bounds play a couple minutes into the game, with Collin Murray-Boyles setting a back screen for Immanuel Quickley. The rookie easily caught above the break while Brandon Ingram set a symmetrical back screen for RJ Barrett on the weak side. Murray-Boyles easily found Barrett streaking to the hoop for an open jam."
The Toronto Raptors improved interior play and rebounding after early season struggles, winning consecutive battles on the glass. The Raptors beat the Ja Morant-less Memphis Grizzlies 117-104 as defensive rotations appeared more connected and disruptive. Collin Murray-Boyles and Scottie Barnes provided quick help defense, intercepting passes, blocking shots and smothering potential Grizzlies advantages. RJ Barrett scored 27 points with six rebounds and six assists, while Brandon Ingram added 26 points. Barnes contributed 19 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists and five blocks, and also hit several 3-pointers. A well-executed sideline out-of-bounds play and effective back screens created an easy Barrett slam.
Read at Raptors Republic
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