"New York will be without former Raptor OG Anunoby tonight, which hampers their defense tremendously. Without Anunoby, New York loses immense defensive versatility, help defense on the back end, and their best wing defender, against one of the best offenses in the NBA in Toronto. Toronto, led by Brandon Ingram will have numerous defenders to attack in New York, Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns specifically."
"Mikal Bridges is New York's best remaining wing defender and will likely draw the Ingram assignment, but with Bridges having taken a step back defensively in recent years, Ingram should still be able to get to his shots comfortably. Another troubling thing about this Knicks team is the offensive rebounds that they generate when Mitchell Robinson is on the floor."
Toronto plays the second night of a back-to-back in New York after a nine-game winning streak ended against the Charlotte Hornets. The Raptors are 14-6 with a 117.0 offensive rating, 111.2 defensive rating, and a +5.8 net rating. New York is 12-6 with a 120.7 offensive rating and a +6.7 net rating under coach Mike Brown. The Knicks will be without OG Anunoby, reducing defensive versatility and wing defense. Toronto, led by Brandon Ingram, can target Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns via screens and pick-and-rolls. Mitchell Robinson's offensive rebounding (4.3 per game) creates second-chance scoring risk. Walter may start to guard Brunson.
Read at Raptors Republic
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