The Raps played fairly well for the game, but couldn't pull off a victory against the new-and-probably-much-better Amare'e's (that's a lot of apostrophes) Knicks. For the game, there was no one particular reason the Raps lost. However, it will probably be the trend of games this season where plenty of players will play well (or solidly enough) but the lack of a go-to scorer and leader will hurt in key situations. Bargnani had a big game and will most likely put up big numbers this year, but it seems unlikely he has the makings of a franchise offensive talent (though he could very well be a secondary or tertiary scorer on a very good team).
NBA.com recap
Player of the game:
Il Mago did not seem lost in his first game as the face of the Raptors. While he struggled somewhat from the field (8-21) he did not lose his outside touch over the summer hitting five threes in eight attempts. Bargs finished with 22 points and 6 rebounds and complemented that nicely with 2 blocks. I don't think it's unreasonable to expect pretty similar season averages for Drea this year.
Notables:
Reggie Evans (0 points on 0-2 shooting, 16 rebounds, 2 steals, 5 fouls) did exactly what the Raptors brought him in to do. He picked up 4 offensive boards, hustled like crazy and was a menace down low.
Linas Kleiza (13 points, 5 rebounds). The Destroyer of Worlds took a backseat to Bargnani's chuck-it-up ways last night, but the after offseason - Worlds, preseason and now the opener - it is clear that Kleiza has come back from Europe a better player, and could be a valuable trade chip for a contender.
Jarrett Jack (16 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds, 3 steals) played a nice all-around game as the starting point guard. He played his trademark solid defense and showed good playmaking ability. Jack could also bring back some useful pieces in a trade, if BC chooses that route.
NBA.com box score
Stat of the Game:
Wilson Chandler torched the Raptors off the bench to the tune of 22 points, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks and 2 assists in just 29 minutes. The Raptors' perimeter defense was not good last night and Chandler made the Raps pay.
Showing posts with label Andrea Bargnani. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Andrea Bargnani. Show all posts
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
Italian Raps Light Up Eurobasket Qualifying
Marco Belinelli and Dr. Drea both had big games yesterday in the Eurobasket qualifiers, as Italy beat Finland (stop laughing) 82-73. Bargs and Nelly both started, and each contributed in a big way to their team's success.Bargnani is clearly comfortable as the focal point of Italy's offense, playing 30 minutes and contributing a team-high 24 points in very efficient manner (9/17 FG, 2/4 3PT, 4/5 FT). He contributed a team-high 5 rebounds as well (not even 60 total rebounds in the game) and a game-high 3 blocks. Hopefully Eurobasket will give Andrea some solid experience as an offense's number-1 scoring option.
Belinelli is also a key component of Italy's offense, and he did not disappoint, playing 35 minutes and showing a very nice all-around game: 15 points (5/9 FG, 3/6 3PT, 2/2 FT), game-high 5 assists, 2 rebounds and 2 steals. Hopefully he can continue to be a factor beyond just scoring, and if he can he'll be a great weapon off the Raptor bench.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Year One A.B: A New Franchise Player
Photo Credit: http://static.sky.it/static/images/sezioni/sport/Nba/bargnani_toronto_raptors_nba.jpgComing into the Association as a rookie, Andrea had a solid face-up game and a three-point shot that could scare any defender. The obvious comparison between Bargnani and Mavs forward Dirk Nowitzki were made. I will take this comparison a little further because, best case scenario, we hope that Bargnani will do everything Dirk does and more.
Dirk became the franchise player of the Mavs in 2004 when his good friend Steve Nash left Dallas to play in cactus country. As a 26 year old, Dirk rose to the challenge and saw a per game point increase of 5 in his first season without Stevey (from 21 ppg to 26 ppg). He disproved many of his critics who said he could not play with another star. Since '04, Dirk has recorded career numbers in almost every category. His name is now synonymous with the Dallas organization.
Now let's look at our 7'0, 250 lb international forward. Playing second fiddle to CB4, Andrea's best season was his '09-'10 campaign, as he posted 17 ppg and 6 ppg, while shooting a career best 47%. The 25 year old Italian is about to become the focal point of the Raptor offense. I am hopeful because every season has seen Andrea's numbers increase, and there is no reason to suggest that he will slow down this season. His post game has improved significantly to the point where he can now be considered an "inside-outside" player. To keep his success going this season as the primary option, Andrea needs to not be flustered when he is counted on to put up 20 shot attempts per game this season. Furthermore, he needs to not force shots and not be afraid to kick the ball out for a re-post. Perhaps foul trouble, Andrea's old foe, is now his biggest threat. However, there is reason for hope even on this front. While Drea's foul numbers did increase with increased playing time (24 mpg to 32) in his third season (from about 2.7 fpg to 3.2), in his fourth season he showed a much improved ability to avoid fouls. His playing time increased to about 35 mpg but his fouls decreased to his early numbers - back to 2.7 fpg. For comparison's sake, Dirk averaged about 2.6 fpg in 2009-10, and Carlos Boozer averaged 3.2 in the same season. All this improvement came despite a sizable improvement in Andrea's intimidation on defense. In his second season, his blocks per game were an unimpressive .5 bpg. However, as with all his stats, he made a large stride in his third season, bringing his blocks up to 1.2 per game, and another improvement in his fourth to 1.4.
These all signify good things to come. This season could very easily be a beautiful thing for Andrea, we could see the birth of a new superstar. However, he needs to keep in mind that he needs to play within his own game and play with his teammates. Otherwise we could see a struggling Italian jump shooter for the first part of the season.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Raps Step Up D in Chi-Town: 99-89 Raps
Facing a tough and somewhat enigmatic Bulls team, the Raptors looked like they were ready to give up on this one in the first half. They controlled much of the first half, but the Bulls made a run late to go up before halftime. Whatever Jay Triano said in the locker room worked, because the Dinos were tenacious on D in the second half, allowing Chicago to shoot just 10-40 from the field and make only three field goals in the fourth quarter. Helped along by another monstrous Chris Bosh performance and an electrifying one-handed slam from DeMar DeRozan, the Raps head back out for another 3-game road trip on a winning note.
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Giving to CB4 every game is getting boring. Let's give DMDR his first PotG in the pros. He ignited the Raps in the third quarter with his athleticism and hustle and finished with career highs in points (9), rebounds (9) and blocks (2). Hopefully DeMar can build on this performance, because his main job is to do the little things like he did last night.
Notables:
Andrea Bargnani had a solid game all-around with 16 points, 6 boards and 2 steals. He did have some foul trouble (finished with 5) but when 16 and 6 is an off-night for Il Mago, it seems like he's shed his "first-overall bust" tag.
Hedo Turkoglu continued his remarkable consistency, posting a very solid line of 11 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals. Hedo has been a consummate veteran this whole season and is willing to do anything to win ballgames. Hopefully he can inspire the rest of the team to do more of the winning part.
Jose Calderon was busting down defenses all game long and finished with 18 points and 6 assists to a single turnover. When Jose is penetrating as well as he did last night, the Raptor offense is very efficient.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raps got to the line only two more times than Chicago, led by Bosh who continued to post double-digits in FTA in every game this season. However, the Raps were outstanding at the free-throw line, making 22 of 23 attempts for a 95.7 percentage compared to Chicago's 17-21 for 81%. In close games, free throws loom large, and the Dinos made the most of them.
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Giving to CB4 every game is getting boring. Let's give DMDR his first PotG in the pros. He ignited the Raps in the third quarter with his athleticism and hustle and finished with career highs in points (9), rebounds (9) and blocks (2). Hopefully DeMar can build on this performance, because his main job is to do the little things like he did last night.
Notables:
Andrea Bargnani had a solid game all-around with 16 points, 6 boards and 2 steals. He did have some foul trouble (finished with 5) but when 16 and 6 is an off-night for Il Mago, it seems like he's shed his "first-overall bust" tag.
Hedo Turkoglu continued his remarkable consistency, posting a very solid line of 11 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals. Hedo has been a consummate veteran this whole season and is willing to do anything to win ballgames. Hopefully he can inspire the rest of the team to do more of the winning part.
Jose Calderon was busting down defenses all game long and finished with 18 points and 6 assists to a single turnover. When Jose is penetrating as well as he did last night, the Raptor offense is very efficient.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raps got to the line only two more times than Chicago, led by Bosh who continued to post double-digits in FTA in every game this season. However, the Raps were outstanding at the free-throw line, making 22 of 23 attempts for a 95.7 percentage compared to Chicago's 17-21 for 81%. In close games, free throws loom large, and the Dinos made the most of them.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Raps Look for 3rd Straight in Dallas
The Raptors roll into Dallas (tipoff at 8:30PM EST) on the back half of two games in two nights, and hope to both extend their win streak to three games and to give Chris Bosh, playing at an MVP level thus far, his first win in Dallas in his career.
W2W4:
- Big man matchups. The four starting PFs/Cs in this game will have a huge impact on how the game turns out. Dirk Nowitzki has always been a Turok (averaging 24 points and 7 boards against the Raps), and the player whose ceiling was always "The Next Dirk," Andrea Bargnani, will hope to continue to take a huge step forward in his fourth season. If Il Mago continues to develop, he could turn out to be even better than the one-time MVP. As well, CB4 should give Erick Dampier fits with his improved play and newfound beastly-ness in the post. Look for Bosh to have a huge game (really going out on a limb there, eh?).
- New Mavs and new Raps. The two teams were involved in a mammoth four-team deal this offseason that brought Hedo Turkoglu, Antoine Wright and Devean George (flipped to Golden State for Marco Belinelli) to Toronto, with Shawn Marion and Kris Humphries donning the Mavs blue. Turk has been a steady influence in the Raps' frontcourt thus far, being incredibly consistent on both offense and defense, while 'Toine and Marco have been instrumental in making the Raps' second unit one of their potent weapons. The Matrix has been his usual stat-filling self, putting up 14 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.4 steals per game, while Hump has given them some energy off the bench with 6 points and 4 boards per game to go along with his trademark questionable shot selection (44% from the field).
- Jose Calderon. After some criticism incited by his slow start to the season, the object of many a man-crush delivered a classic Jose game, with tremendous efficiency against the Hornets: 16 points (on 6-11 from the field, 2-4 from three, and perfect 2-2 from the line), 8 assists to just one turnover and 4 rebounds. If Jose continues to be the floor general we know he can be, the Raps will be very tough to beat.
W2W4:
- Big man matchups. The four starting PFs/Cs in this game will have a huge impact on how the game turns out. Dirk Nowitzki has always been a Turok (averaging 24 points and 7 boards against the Raps), and the player whose ceiling was always "The Next Dirk," Andrea Bargnani, will hope to continue to take a huge step forward in his fourth season. If Il Mago continues to develop, he could turn out to be even better than the one-time MVP. As well, CB4 should give Erick Dampier fits with his improved play and newfound beastly-ness in the post. Look for Bosh to have a huge game (really going out on a limb there, eh?).
- New Mavs and new Raps. The two teams were involved in a mammoth four-team deal this offseason that brought Hedo Turkoglu, Antoine Wright and Devean George (flipped to Golden State for Marco Belinelli) to Toronto, with Shawn Marion and Kris Humphries donning the Mavs blue. Turk has been a steady influence in the Raps' frontcourt thus far, being incredibly consistent on both offense and defense, while 'Toine and Marco have been instrumental in making the Raps' second unit one of their potent weapons. The Matrix has been his usual stat-filling self, putting up 14 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.4 steals per game, while Hump has given them some energy off the bench with 6 points and 4 boards per game to go along with his trademark questionable shot selection (44% from the field).
- Jose Calderon. After some criticism incited by his slow start to the season, the object of many a man-crush delivered a classic Jose game, with tremendous efficiency against the Hornets: 16 points (on 6-11 from the field, 2-4 from three, and perfect 2-2 from the line), 8 assists to just one turnover and 4 rebounds. If Jose continues to be the floor general we know he can be, the Raps will be very tough to beat.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Big Easy for Big Tough Game
Tonight at 8PM the Raps roll into New Orleans to take on the red-hot Chris Paul and the Hornets. The Hornets are 2-3 this year and the Raps look for their second straight win and to start their road trip (7 of the 8 next games are played away from the ACC) on the right foot.
W2W4:
- That Paul kid. CP3 has been phenomenal this year, averaging 30 points per game thus far and is shooting a ridiculous 80% (12-15) from the three-point line. The Raps' three primary PG defenders - Jose Calderon, Jarrett Jack and Antoine Wright have said their game plan is to turn Paul into a jump shooter and the Hornets' primary scorer. Hopefully the other Dinos can take Paul's teammates out of the game.
- Big men. The Raptors retaliate against the Hornets with their "Killer B's" (oh my, I'm so sorry) - Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani. Combined, they're averaging almost 52 points, 20 rebounds (5 offensive), 2 blocks, shooting over 50% from the field and over 75% from three. They're putting themselves into consideration for the best big-man combo in the NBA and if Bargs keeps up his rebounding from the game against Detroit (12 boards), David West and Emeka Okafor will be in for a long night.
- Hedo Turkoglu. He's been quiet this year, but that doesn't mean he hasn't been effective. He's in fact 3rd on the Raptors in all three of the primary statistics, averaging 15.3 points (on solid 49% from the field and 33.3% from 3-point land), along with 4.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game while playing tough D (averaging 1.25 blocks and .75 steals per game). He's really adjusted quickly to Jay Triano's system, and he's helped the Raps average the third-most points (108.5) in the Association.
W2W4:
- That Paul kid. CP3 has been phenomenal this year, averaging 30 points per game thus far and is shooting a ridiculous 80% (12-15) from the three-point line. The Raps' three primary PG defenders - Jose Calderon, Jarrett Jack and Antoine Wright have said their game plan is to turn Paul into a jump shooter and the Hornets' primary scorer. Hopefully the other Dinos can take Paul's teammates out of the game.
- Big men. The Raptors retaliate against the Hornets with their "Killer B's" (oh my, I'm so sorry) - Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani. Combined, they're averaging almost 52 points, 20 rebounds (5 offensive), 2 blocks, shooting over 50% from the field and over 75% from three. They're putting themselves into consideration for the best big-man combo in the NBA and if Bargs keeps up his rebounding from the game against Detroit (12 boards), David West and Emeka Okafor will be in for a long night.
- Hedo Turkoglu. He's been quiet this year, but that doesn't mean he hasn't been effective. He's in fact 3rd on the Raptors in all three of the primary statistics, averaging 15.3 points (on solid 49% from the field and 33.3% from 3-point land), along with 4.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game while playing tough D (averaging 1.25 blocks and .75 steals per game). He's really adjusted quickly to Jay Triano's system, and he's helped the Raps average the third-most points (108.5) in the Association.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Raps Imitate D in a Pickup Game - 125-116 Magic
Well, it's clear that this Raptors team can score. We know that already. But besides the first game, the defense has been nothing short of abysmal. The Dinos gave up 36 first-quarter points and really only made a game out of it again in the fourth. They got monstrous performances from Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani, and Hedo Turkoglu and Jose Calderon were solid, but the Magic starters were dominant offensively. Besides Matt Barnes (who did post a line of 12 points, 9 boards, 6 steals, 4 assists, 2 blocks) every Orlando starter posted at least 20 points, led by Jameer Nelson's 30 points. They also let JJ Redick and Ryan Anderson combine for 47 points - never, ever a good recipe for success.
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Surprise, surprise, it's CB4 again. He put up another monster line of 35 points and 16 rebounds. He's doing all he can on offense. But both he and his supporting cast need to step up big time on the other side of the ball.
Notables:
Bargs - 26 points, 4 rebounds. His 2nd big scoring night of the season (admittedly, his "off night" yielded 12 points on good percentages) but with Reggie Evans not around to throw some 'bows in practice, he's been strugglingly defensively.
Hedayet - 19 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 blocks. Another nice, well-rounded game. Repeat previous statements about defense.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raptors were outscored by 21 from behind the three-point arc, and also by 10 at the free-throw line.
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Surprise, surprise, it's CB4 again. He put up another monster line of 35 points and 16 rebounds. He's doing all he can on offense. But both he and his supporting cast need to step up big time on the other side of the ball.
Notables:
Bargs - 26 points, 4 rebounds. His 2nd big scoring night of the season (admittedly, his "off night" yielded 12 points on good percentages) but with Reggie Evans not around to throw some 'bows in practice, he's been strugglingly defensively.
Hedayet - 19 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 blocks. Another nice, well-rounded game. Repeat previous statements about defense.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raptors were outscored by 21 from behind the three-point arc, and also by 10 at the free-throw line.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Raps Take Opener! 101-91 Raps
In a great game for our Dinos, the Raptors start the season 1-0. The Franchise Chris Bosh put up a big game and Andrea Bargnani showed that he's here to prove something this year, leading the Raps in scoring. The Raps' D was tenacious, posting 4 steals and 6 blocks (3 by newcomer Hedo Turkoglu in his debut!). If this is the way Raps games are going to be for the rest of the season, it's going to be a lot of fun.
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Give it up for Il Mago. He led the game in scoring with 28 on 11-15 shooting (2-3 from 3, 4-4 from the line) in under 30 minutes on the court. He picked up some questionable fouls which limited his playing time and ability to rebound (he had a merely-okay 5, though, with CB4 on the glass, there weren't many boards to be had). He was running circles around the Cavs' big men and was scoring from anywhere. It's kind of interesting how both the Italian boys (Andrea and Marco Belinelli) are so similar in their ability and willingness to score from anywhere. Each one also had a thunderous dunk in the game.
Notables:
CB4 - 21 points, 16 rebounds, 2 assists. Not a bad start for the face of the franchise. He answered Shaquille O'Neal's assertion that he is the "RuPaul of big men" strongly, and helped hold the Most Dominant Ever (?) to a decidedly mediocre game (12 points, 7 rebounds, 0 blocks, 0-3 FT, 4 fouls).
Jose Calderon - 5 points, 11 assists, 3 rebounds, 3 turnovers. Had a Jose-esque game. Didn't score a lot (he really doesn't need to with the firepower around him) and, oddly, after receiving the award for setting the NBA single-season free-throw shooting record, missed his first two free throws of the game, finishing 3-5 from the line. He and Jarrett Jack, importantly, stopped Mo Williams and Daniel Gibson from being effective playmakers - 28 points, but a 5:5 assist-turnover ratio and combined 8-24 shooting). Jose acknowledged in the offseason that his defence last year was bad, and hopefully he can continue to hold his own on that side of the ball.
Hidayet - 12 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks. Had a very solid debut at home, filling in the stat sheet nicely. He was very good defensively and scored a little bit when he needed to. It also seemed like he was in good control of the offense at the end of the game, helping us keep a sizeable lead until the end.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raptors simply dominated on the defensive end, giving up very few easy buckets and holding Cleveland to 34.9% (29-83) shooting. If they can concentrate and hold their own in their zone the whole year, this season will definitely be fun to watch.
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Give it up for Il Mago. He led the game in scoring with 28 on 11-15 shooting (2-3 from 3, 4-4 from the line) in under 30 minutes on the court. He picked up some questionable fouls which limited his playing time and ability to rebound (he had a merely-okay 5, though, with CB4 on the glass, there weren't many boards to be had). He was running circles around the Cavs' big men and was scoring from anywhere. It's kind of interesting how both the Italian boys (Andrea and Marco Belinelli) are so similar in their ability and willingness to score from anywhere. Each one also had a thunderous dunk in the game.
Notables:
CB4 - 21 points, 16 rebounds, 2 assists. Not a bad start for the face of the franchise. He answered Shaquille O'Neal's assertion that he is the "RuPaul of big men" strongly, and helped hold the Most Dominant Ever (?) to a decidedly mediocre game (12 points, 7 rebounds, 0 blocks, 0-3 FT, 4 fouls).
Jose Calderon - 5 points, 11 assists, 3 rebounds, 3 turnovers. Had a Jose-esque game. Didn't score a lot (he really doesn't need to with the firepower around him) and, oddly, after receiving the award for setting the NBA single-season free-throw shooting record, missed his first two free throws of the game, finishing 3-5 from the line. He and Jarrett Jack, importantly, stopped Mo Williams and Daniel Gibson from being effective playmakers - 28 points, but a 5:5 assist-turnover ratio and combined 8-24 shooting). Jose acknowledged in the offseason that his defence last year was bad, and hopefully he can continue to hold his own on that side of the ball.
Hidayet - 12 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks. Had a very solid debut at home, filling in the stat sheet nicely. He was very good defensively and scored a little bit when he needed to. It also seemed like he was in good control of the offense at the end of the game, helping us keep a sizeable lead until the end.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raptors simply dominated on the defensive end, giving up very few easy buckets and holding Cleveland to 34.9% (29-83) shooting. If they can concentrate and hold their own in their zone the whole year, this season will definitely be fun to watch.
Friday, October 9, 2009
RealGM's Andrew Perna Previews the Raptors
Yesterday Andrew Perna, one of the editors over at RealGM (and one of the few people on that site who actually know anything about the sport, but that's another story) previewed the Raps. I happen to agree with a lot of what he has to say, but I'd like to analyze what he has to say and add some commentary of my own.
Read the full article.
On Jose Calderon:
"After playing in all 82 games during the 2007-08 season, Jose Calderon missed 14 contests last year. Regardless of the time he missed, Calderon averaged career-highs in points (12.8), assists (8.9) and minutes per game (34.3). As Toronto’s best play-maker, he had a 41.0 assist percentage, which quantifies his chemistry with teammates Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani.
He isn’t an explosive scorer by any means, but is careful with the basketball and is extremely reliable at the foul-line. His defense is decent, although he is often beaten by faster point guards."
I don't think Perna gives Jose enough credit for his scoring abilities. He set a career high in points by about a point and a half, but that included a drop of 20 points in his FG% and 25 in 3PT%. He was definitively the leader of the team last year for the first time, so his shots per game did rise, but I think it's more than likely that his drop in percentages and lack of an explosion in his scoring average (as some analysts predicted) was due to his playing hurt for most of the season. Also, it's a tad generous to say he's a "decent" defender, though his injury may have had an effect here as well.
On Raptors swingmen:
"DeRozan is an interesting piece, especially since his role isn’t exactly clear-cut. Turkoglu could take a majority of the minutes at small forward, or even shooting guard, but Belinelli should have to show something significant in order to lock down a majority of the perimeter minutes over the rookie. The former Trojan is raw, but his potential may be higher than any other member of his class.
If Belinelli blossoms in Toronto, the three-man rotation of the Italian, the Turk and the American could help the Raptors climb near the top of the Eastern Conference."
I would assume that Jay Triano is spending most of this training camp giving every player a defined role (at least I hope he is). The comparisons between this team and last year's Magic have been beaten to death, but it's not at all out of the question for DMDR to have a similar season to Courtney Lee's last year - defend hard, get easy buckets in transition, and contribute offensively when he's hot. With regards to his potential, I agree, and he's already gotten much stronger to add to his prototypical swingman build. The final point is the one I think resonates strongest, though: should Belinelli have a big season (think 12-15 PPG or so) he could very well be this team's Manu Ginobili-type sparkplug off the bench, something we missed dearly last year with all the injuries and poor play.
On the season:
"Forecast: Colangelo believes that the Raptors can be a 50-win team with home-court advantage in the postseason. That’s not out of the realm of possibility, but the club will have to gel quickly and their studs (Calderon, Turkoglu, Bosh and Bargnani) will have to remain healthy in order to have a shot. They’ll finish with around 45 wins, which should put them in the four-six range in terms of playoff seeding. They aren’t anywhere near the beasts of the East (Boston, Orlando and Cleveland), but there isn’t any reason why they can’t complete with or surpass the rest (Atlanta, Miami, Chicago and Philadelphia)."
I agree here 100%. The Raps will likely steal a couple victories from the big dogs in the East but they'll have to defend their turf against the second tier if they plan to win those 50 games. It's certainly possible, especially if the young guys take a step forward and Chris Bosh's added weight brings him to the next level.
Soon PH will bring you our season preview. Remember, tonight the Raps take on the T-Wolves in Minnesota at 8 PM EST.
Read the full article.
On Jose Calderon:
"After playing in all 82 games during the 2007-08 season, Jose Calderon missed 14 contests last year. Regardless of the time he missed, Calderon averaged career-highs in points (12.8), assists (8.9) and minutes per game (34.3). As Toronto’s best play-maker, he had a 41.0 assist percentage, which quantifies his chemistry with teammates Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani.
He isn’t an explosive scorer by any means, but is careful with the basketball and is extremely reliable at the foul-line. His defense is decent, although he is often beaten by faster point guards."
I don't think Perna gives Jose enough credit for his scoring abilities. He set a career high in points by about a point and a half, but that included a drop of 20 points in his FG% and 25 in 3PT%. He was definitively the leader of the team last year for the first time, so his shots per game did rise, but I think it's more than likely that his drop in percentages and lack of an explosion in his scoring average (as some analysts predicted) was due to his playing hurt for most of the season. Also, it's a tad generous to say he's a "decent" defender, though his injury may have had an effect here as well.
On Raptors swingmen:
"DeRozan is an interesting piece, especially since his role isn’t exactly clear-cut. Turkoglu could take a majority of the minutes at small forward, or even shooting guard, but Belinelli should have to show something significant in order to lock down a majority of the perimeter minutes over the rookie. The former Trojan is raw, but his potential may be higher than any other member of his class.
If Belinelli blossoms in Toronto, the three-man rotation of the Italian, the Turk and the American could help the Raptors climb near the top of the Eastern Conference."
I would assume that Jay Triano is spending most of this training camp giving every player a defined role (at least I hope he is). The comparisons between this team and last year's Magic have been beaten to death, but it's not at all out of the question for DMDR to have a similar season to Courtney Lee's last year - defend hard, get easy buckets in transition, and contribute offensively when he's hot. With regards to his potential, I agree, and he's already gotten much stronger to add to his prototypical swingman build. The final point is the one I think resonates strongest, though: should Belinelli have a big season (think 12-15 PPG or so) he could very well be this team's Manu Ginobili-type sparkplug off the bench, something we missed dearly last year with all the injuries and poor play.
On the season:
"Forecast: Colangelo believes that the Raptors can be a 50-win team with home-court advantage in the postseason. That’s not out of the realm of possibility, but the club will have to gel quickly and their studs (Calderon, Turkoglu, Bosh and Bargnani) will have to remain healthy in order to have a shot. They’ll finish with around 45 wins, which should put them in the four-six range in terms of playoff seeding. They aren’t anywhere near the beasts of the East (Boston, Orlando and Cleveland), but there isn’t any reason why they can’t complete with or surpass the rest (Atlanta, Miami, Chicago and Philadelphia)."
I agree here 100%. The Raps will likely steal a couple victories from the big dogs in the East but they'll have to defend their turf against the second tier if they plan to win those 50 games. It's certainly possible, especially if the young guys take a step forward and Chris Bosh's added weight brings him to the next level.
Soon PH will bring you our season preview. Remember, tonight the Raps take on the T-Wolves in Minnesota at 8 PM EST.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Raps Stumble in Preseason Back-to-Back
The Raps played their first two preseason games over the past couple of days and dropped them both, 107-98 in London, Ontario, and 84-79 in Toronto. It's very tough to raise any solid concerns or point out anything of value for two reasons: a) it's preseason (there is a saying that goes, "you can't find out who can play, you can only find out who can't play") as well as the Raps' two leaders (and likely two best players) in Chris Bosh and Hidayet Turkoglu are sitting out for now with minor injuries. That said, here are some points that can be gleaned from the back-to-back:
Reggie Evans does not arrive anywhere quietly. He put up 8 steals in the two games and was a beast inside and on the glass. He's not afraid to let people know how sharp his elbows are at any point and he picked up 9 hard-nosed fouls. He was, as usual, poor from the free-throw line (7-14) which means he likely won't be able to play at the end of games, and will probably be replaced with Rasho Nesterovic, Amir Johnson or with Andrea Bargnani sliding over to the 4-spot.
Speaking of Il Mago, he led us in scoring in the first game with 22 points, showcasing all his tremendous scoring prowess. In the second game he played under 20 minutes in order to give AJ some time (who put up 8 points, 8 boards and 6 fouls), but if Bargnani can be that dominant on the offensive end it will make things easy for Jose Calderon.
Touted rookie DeMar DeRozan did a solid job filling the stat sheet with a two-game line of 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals and 2 three-pointers (2-5 shooting). It's important for DMDR to establish his presence in all facets of the game and realize that he doesn't have to carry the load offensively with gifted scorers around him in Bosh, Turkoglu, Bargs and Jose. He'll likely get some time with the second unit as well, and it could be fun to watch him and Marco Belinelli, two very different wing players, light it up in their own ways.
The Raptors' next preseason game is tomorrow (Friday), 8 P.M at the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Reggie Evans does not arrive anywhere quietly. He put up 8 steals in the two games and was a beast inside and on the glass. He's not afraid to let people know how sharp his elbows are at any point and he picked up 9 hard-nosed fouls. He was, as usual, poor from the free-throw line (7-14) which means he likely won't be able to play at the end of games, and will probably be replaced with Rasho Nesterovic, Amir Johnson or with Andrea Bargnani sliding over to the 4-spot.
Speaking of Il Mago, he led us in scoring in the first game with 22 points, showcasing all his tremendous scoring prowess. In the second game he played under 20 minutes in order to give AJ some time (who put up 8 points, 8 boards and 6 fouls), but if Bargnani can be that dominant on the offensive end it will make things easy for Jose Calderon.
Touted rookie DeMar DeRozan did a solid job filling the stat sheet with a two-game line of 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals and 2 three-pointers (2-5 shooting). It's important for DMDR to establish his presence in all facets of the game and realize that he doesn't have to carry the load offensively with gifted scorers around him in Bosh, Turkoglu, Bargs and Jose. He'll likely get some time with the second unit as well, and it could be fun to watch him and Marco Belinelli, two very different wing players, light it up in their own ways.
The Raptors' next preseason game is tomorrow (Friday), 8 P.M at the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Beginning of Training Camp Update
So we inch closer to the start of the NBA season with the arrival of the Raptors' training camp. Interesting tidbits: DeMar DeRozan and Chris Bosh have both bulked up significantly - Bosh has apparently gained about 20 pounds on his upper body. DeRozan has been working out hard this off-season (judging by his Twitter feed) and looks very chiseled. Speaking of Bosh, he tweaked his hamstring and will miss the start of training camp. Here's hoping he gets better quickly, and that his new tattoo (sorry, he's not showing anyone yet) looks dashing.
The Raptors Charity Golf Classic was this week, and Bryan Colangelo, Andrea Bargnani, Jose Calderon as well as front-office staff looked like they were having a great time.
As well, Media Day was also this week and you can check out all the video on Raptors.com. Plenty of Raps are interviewed and all sound really excited for this season to start.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Raps Nab Johnson and Weems
According to the Toronto Star, the Raps have traded "Hot Cocoa" Roko Ukic and the rights to restricted free agent Carlos Delfino to the Milwaukee Bucks for forward Amir Johnson and guard Sonny Weems. Both come off the books after this season, though Weems has a team option for 2010-11.
Johnson, a very athletic 6-10, put up 3.5 points and 3.7 rebounds per game in just 15 minutes last season in Detroit. He figures to add to our big-man depth, backing up Andrea Bargnani, Chris Bosh and Hedo Turkoglu. He'll compete for time with Reggie Evans and Rasho Nesterovic and may pass Patrick O'Bryant on the depth chart.
Weems, 6-6, spent the majority of last season in the D-League playing for the Colorado 14ers. He'll likely ride the pine most of the season. Hopefully he can make friends with Marcus Banks.
Grade for Raptors: B
It's a solid deal that brings a big man with upside to Toronto while reducing the number of contracts for next summer in an attempt to keep CB4 in town. Weems is essentially a non-factor in this deal, and Delfino's skills were redundant with DeMar DeRozan, Antoine Wright, Marco Belinelli and Turk in town. The only downside to this deal (besides losing 2 nations from the UN of the NBA) is giving away Roko. While he likely would have gotten very little playing time behind Jose Calderon and newly acquired Jarrett Jack, he's still a big, young guard with plenty of upside. It's entirely possible he could develop into a solid NBA player, but for the immediate future of this franchise, it didn't make any sense to keep him. Solid deal by Bryan Colangelo to try to make something from pretty much nothing.
Johnson, a very athletic 6-10, put up 3.5 points and 3.7 rebounds per game in just 15 minutes last season in Detroit. He figures to add to our big-man depth, backing up Andrea Bargnani, Chris Bosh and Hedo Turkoglu. He'll compete for time with Reggie Evans and Rasho Nesterovic and may pass Patrick O'Bryant on the depth chart.
Weems, 6-6, spent the majority of last season in the D-League playing for the Colorado 14ers. He'll likely ride the pine most of the season. Hopefully he can make friends with Marcus Banks.
Grade for Raptors: B
It's a solid deal that brings a big man with upside to Toronto while reducing the number of contracts for next summer in an attempt to keep CB4 in town. Weems is essentially a non-factor in this deal, and Delfino's skills were redundant with DeMar DeRozan, Antoine Wright, Marco Belinelli and Turk in town. The only downside to this deal (besides losing 2 nations from the UN of the NBA) is giving away Roko. While he likely would have gotten very little playing time behind Jose Calderon and newly acquired Jarrett Jack, he's still a big, young guard with plenty of upside. It's entirely possible he could develop into a solid NBA player, but for the immediate future of this franchise, it didn't make any sense to keep him. Solid deal by Bryan Colangelo to try to make something from pretty much nothing.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Raps Officially Add Rasho and Marco
Today the Raptors announced via raptors.com that they have added 23-year-old 6-5 guard Marco Belinelli and 11-year veteran 7-footer Rasho Nesterovic.
Belinelli was acquired from Golden State in exchange for cash considerations as well as forward Devean George who arrived in the Hedo Turkoglu trade that also brought in Antoine Wright. Marco will likely battle Wright and apparent starter DeMar DeRozan for minutes at the swingmen positions. He's also the second Italian to play in the NBA, and now joins fellow countryman Andrea Bargnani.
It is rumoured that Rasho was signed to a one-year deal for the bi-annual exception (about $1.9 million which doesn't count against the salary cap), and he will likely serve as Bargnani's backup at the centre position, while becoming the fifth member of the Raps big-man rotation, along with Chris Bosh, Turkoglu, and Reggie Evans.
Both of these deals give the Raptors additional depth and different offensive and defensive schemes to toss at opponents. As well, they give very important backups who can step in if the Raps' starters are hit with injuries.
Belinelli was acquired from Golden State in exchange for cash considerations as well as forward Devean George who arrived in the Hedo Turkoglu trade that also brought in Antoine Wright. Marco will likely battle Wright and apparent starter DeMar DeRozan for minutes at the swingmen positions. He's also the second Italian to play in the NBA, and now joins fellow countryman Andrea Bargnani.
It is rumoured that Rasho was signed to a one-year deal for the bi-annual exception (about $1.9 million which doesn't count against the salary cap), and he will likely serve as Bargnani's backup at the centre position, while becoming the fifth member of the Raps big-man rotation, along with Chris Bosh, Turkoglu, and Reggie Evans.
Both of these deals give the Raptors additional depth and different offensive and defensive schemes to toss at opponents. As well, they give very important backups who can step in if the Raps' starters are hit with injuries.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Bargs Gets Contract Extension
Andrea Bargnani has secured his long term future with the Raps (unlike other unnamed Raptor bigmen who may leave in 2010) by signing a 5 year, 50 million dollar contract extension.
Andrea had his breakout season in 2008-2009, averaging 15.4 points per game and 5.3 points per game. His play was a rare positive in the 08-09 season.
Chris Bosh seemed supportive on his Twitter, saying "Congrats to Andrea Bargnani 5 yrs 50 mill with The #Raptors". This definitely means the Raptors will have some talented big men no matter what Bosh chooses to do.
Andrea had his breakout season in 2008-2009, averaging 15.4 points per game and 5.3 points per game. His play was a rare positive in the 08-09 season.
Chris Bosh seemed supportive on his Twitter, saying "Congrats to Andrea Bargnani 5 yrs 50 mill with The #Raptors". This definitely means the Raptors will have some talented big men no matter what Bosh chooses to do.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Latest Raps Update
The Raptors have extended a qualifying offer to Carlos Delfino, a restricted free agent. Delfino played one season with the Raps in 2007-08, appearing in all 82 games and averaged 9.0 points and 4.4 rebounds. He was a key part of the Raptors' depth and strong bench attack. He could be a very worthwhile addition to our bench.
Bryan Colangelo has hinted at who the Raptors' sights are set on for the 2009 NBA Draft. The five players that he and his staff are narrowing in on are athletic swingmen DeMar DeRozan and Gerald Henderson (no surprises there), combo point guards Jonny Flynn of Syracuse and Jrue Holiday of UCLA, and big man James Johnson of Wake Forest. Johnson has enjoyed a large stock rise lately and it is a little surprising that Colangelo seems so interested in a big when we have two quality starters with Chris Bosh and the emergence of Andrea Bargnani as a legit NBA starter who still has tons of upside.
Speaking of Bosh, BC has stated that it may be in the Raps' best interest to sign-and-trade the All-Star post player . However, he does note that the Raptors are actually in the best shape of any team financially with regards to re-signing him, as they can give more money every year and offer a six-year deal (other teams can only offer five) as per the CBA. As a result, while it's becoming more and more of a possibility that the Chris Bosh era is coming to an end in Toronto, it's also likely that the Dinos will not walk away empty-handed.
Bryan Colangelo has hinted at who the Raptors' sights are set on for the 2009 NBA Draft. The five players that he and his staff are narrowing in on are athletic swingmen DeMar DeRozan and Gerald Henderson (no surprises there), combo point guards Jonny Flynn of Syracuse and Jrue Holiday of UCLA, and big man James Johnson of Wake Forest. Johnson has enjoyed a large stock rise lately and it is a little surprising that Colangelo seems so interested in a big when we have two quality starters with Chris Bosh and the emergence of Andrea Bargnani as a legit NBA starter who still has tons of upside.
Speaking of Bosh, BC has stated that it may be in the Raps' best interest to sign-and-trade the All-Star post player . However, he does note that the Raptors are actually in the best shape of any team financially with regards to re-signing him, as they can give more money every year and offer a six-year deal (other teams can only offer five) as per the CBA. As a result, while it's becoming more and more of a possibility that the Chris Bosh era is coming to an end in Toronto, it's also likely that the Dinos will not walk away empty-handed.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Triano's Interim Tag Dropped
On Monday, interim head coach Jay Triano was named the Raptors' full-time head coach. He was signed to a three-year contract, and in 2008-09 posted a 25-40 record, despite leading the Raptors to a 9-4 finish.
The Good and the Bad:
The Good:
- Jay is a respected basketball man. Every current Raptor - including GM Bryan Colangelo - has given him credit for dealing with a tough situation and earning the players' respect. He has been with the Raptors longer than any other coach in franchise history, and coached Team Canada to a 52-42 record from 1998-2004. His experience around the game will be very helpful, and should allow the Raps to be more cohesive, since he'll have the benefit of his own training camp.
- Andrea Bargnani, who before the 2008-09 season, was already hearing more than just whispers of "first-overall bust" was headed for more of the same in 2008. However, after Jay took over, so did Andrea. He brought his season averages up to very solid 15.4 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. Beyond the numbers, Andrea looked confident on the floor, something we had very rarely seen from him since his rookie season. He shot 45% from the floor and over 40% from three, and on many occasions, he completely took over games. Bargnani himself has cited Triano as the reason he was able to break through. As long as Coach Triano can keep up Andrea's confidence, he has a great shot of having two (or three, if Jose Calderon can get in) All-Stars in Il Mago and Chris Bosh.
- Triano is very much a coach that can look unappealing to the casual fan. He does not command one side of the ball like Mike D'Antoni's run-and-gun offense or Tom Thibodeau's defensive fundamentals, he doesn't have the pedigree of Phil Jackson or Gregg Popovich, and he doesn't speak out to the media like Pat Riley. Triano is a "player's coach", much like the (fantastic) Toronto Blue Jays' Cito Gaston. He doesn't nitpick his players, rather opting to establish distinct roles for players and making sure they know what is expected from them. And - if this year's Jays are any indication - it just might work for the Dinos.
- Triano also had the unfortunate situation of having to join the team in the midst of in injury plague. Calderon was injured and the Jermaine O'Neal experiment had not yet been euthanized. When Calderon was healthy and O'Neal had been flipped into Shawn Marion, the Raptors reeled off six convincing wins in a row, even beating the Orlando Magic, who still had much to play for.
The Bad:
- Well, he simply hasn't won very much. He posted an unimpressive record while serving as the interim, and while one can certainly assert that it wasn't entirely his fault, his coaching statistics will not leave any teams shaking in their Nikes.
- At times, mostly in close and late situations which require delicate substitutions, he looked lost. Again, it can be argued that, having been shoved into a trial by fire, it wasn't entirely his fault. However, Triano definitely needs to work on in-game management to project confidence from the sidelines.
The Good and the Bad:
The Good:
- Jay is a respected basketball man. Every current Raptor - including GM Bryan Colangelo - has given him credit for dealing with a tough situation and earning the players' respect. He has been with the Raptors longer than any other coach in franchise history, and coached Team Canada to a 52-42 record from 1998-2004. His experience around the game will be very helpful, and should allow the Raps to be more cohesive, since he'll have the benefit of his own training camp.
- Andrea Bargnani, who before the 2008-09 season, was already hearing more than just whispers of "first-overall bust" was headed for more of the same in 2008. However, after Jay took over, so did Andrea. He brought his season averages up to very solid 15.4 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. Beyond the numbers, Andrea looked confident on the floor, something we had very rarely seen from him since his rookie season. He shot 45% from the floor and over 40% from three, and on many occasions, he completely took over games. Bargnani himself has cited Triano as the reason he was able to break through. As long as Coach Triano can keep up Andrea's confidence, he has a great shot of having two (or three, if Jose Calderon can get in) All-Stars in Il Mago and Chris Bosh.
- Triano is very much a coach that can look unappealing to the casual fan. He does not command one side of the ball like Mike D'Antoni's run-and-gun offense or Tom Thibodeau's defensive fundamentals, he doesn't have the pedigree of Phil Jackson or Gregg Popovich, and he doesn't speak out to the media like Pat Riley. Triano is a "player's coach", much like the (fantastic) Toronto Blue Jays' Cito Gaston. He doesn't nitpick his players, rather opting to establish distinct roles for players and making sure they know what is expected from them. And - if this year's Jays are any indication - it just might work for the Dinos.
- Triano also had the unfortunate situation of having to join the team in the midst of in injury plague. Calderon was injured and the Jermaine O'Neal experiment had not yet been euthanized. When Calderon was healthy and O'Neal had been flipped into Shawn Marion, the Raptors reeled off six convincing wins in a row, even beating the Orlando Magic, who still had much to play for.
The Bad:
- Well, he simply hasn't won very much. He posted an unimpressive record while serving as the interim, and while one can certainly assert that it wasn't entirely his fault, his coaching statistics will not leave any teams shaking in their Nikes.
- At times, mostly in close and late situations which require delicate substitutions, he looked lost. Again, it can be argued that, having been shoved into a trial by fire, it wasn't entirely his fault. However, Triano definitely needs to work on in-game management to project confidence from the sidelines.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Raptors' (Totally Accurate) Season in Review
The Raptors this year experienced a very successful season after swinging a big deal in the offseason to send malcontent T.J. Ford and Rasho Nesterovic to Indiana. While Jermaine O'Neal exceeded expectations handily, averaging 18 points, 9 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game, 2008-09 Executive of the Year favourite Bryan Colangelo swung a deal to send O'Neal and Jamario Moon to Miami for Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks - both of whom experienced complete rennaissances in their own rights in Toronto. Marion put up a fantastic stat line rounding out the frontcourt with franchise player Chris Bosh and first-time All-Star Andrea Bargnani, and Marcus Banks assumed the backup shooting guard position behind First All-Defensive Team member Anthony Parker. Jose Calderon also qualified for his first career All-Star appearance (he insisted that he did not want other guards to feel left out, and refused to play), posting an average of 19 points and 10 assists per game. After the trade, the Raptors played extremely well as a team and, while they were unable to catch powerhouses Orlando, Boston and Cleveland, qualified for home-court advantage in the first round, losing to NBA champion favourite Philadelphia 76ers, led by Elton Brand, Andre Iguodala and above-average point guard Andre Miller. The 76ers battled injuries all season, when all three members of their core played, they went an astounding 23-1, led by all-around good guy Brand's monstrous 29 and 14 per game.
As well, the Raptors' future looks extremely bright, especially since CB4 has verbally committed to staying in Toronto for his entire career. Expect many accolades to come the Raptors' way this summer.
As well, the Raptors' future looks extremely bright, especially since CB4 has verbally committed to staying in Toronto for his entire career. Expect many accolades to come the Raptors' way this summer.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
"The Magician" Outpowers Wizards - 99-93
Andrea Bargnani turned in his fifth straight impressive offensive showing with 25 points on near-perfect 8-9 from the field including 4-5 from three and 5-5 from the line. Chris Bosh and Anthony Parker were also very effective. The Wizards were led by former (for a few seconds) Raptor Antawn Jamison who finished with 32 points, 7 rebounds and 4 steals despite fouling out after playing 37 minutes. The Raptors improved to 15-21, despite finishing the game with an Ostertagean total of 20 turnovers.
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Bargs was more than solid again last night, shooting a remarkable percentage in his 25-point effort while adding 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks. Overall a very nice night from Bargnani, playing through trade rumours that have him heading to Dallas.
Notables:
Chris Bosh - 18 points (5-16 FG, 0-2 3FG, 8-9 FT), 8 rebounds, 6 assists. Bosh had another off-shooting night but was masterful in distributing the rock, something he's done often this season. It's very nice to see him affect the game postively even when he can't score at will.
Anthony Parker - 15 points (6-9 FG, 2-3 3FG, 1-2 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 blocks. Parker has been crashing the boards recently and it's turning up huge results. Besides his scoring which is also way up, AP is averaging over 5 boards in his last four games.
Will Solomon - 14 points (7-11 FG, 0-1 3FG), 5 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 turnovers. Will's been playing nicely as Jose Calderon's (hamstring) fill-in starter. He's put up solid numbers, and despite 5 fouls (refs in Europe are much more lenient on guard physicality) he has kept the ball in control, which is all one can ask from him.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raptors didn't really play that well. Of course, we know a W's a W, but the only thing that really saved them was shooting. The Raps owned a +7 advantage at the free throw line (17-20 for 85% compared to 10-18 for 55.6%) and shot an impressive 54.4% (37-68) from the field compared to Washington's 46.4% (39-84). Toronto's hot shooting helped overshadow a brutal twenty turnovers (Washington had 12), and Jamison's abysmal 3-8 shooting from the line certainly helped matters as well.
Next Game: Friday, January 7th, 7:00 PM vs. Memphis Grizzles
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Bargs was more than solid again last night, shooting a remarkable percentage in his 25-point effort while adding 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks. Overall a very nice night from Bargnani, playing through trade rumours that have him heading to Dallas.
Notables:
Chris Bosh - 18 points (5-16 FG, 0-2 3FG, 8-9 FT), 8 rebounds, 6 assists. Bosh had another off-shooting night but was masterful in distributing the rock, something he's done often this season. It's very nice to see him affect the game postively even when he can't score at will.
Anthony Parker - 15 points (6-9 FG, 2-3 3FG, 1-2 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 blocks. Parker has been crashing the boards recently and it's turning up huge results. Besides his scoring which is also way up, AP is averaging over 5 boards in his last four games.
Will Solomon - 14 points (7-11 FG, 0-1 3FG), 5 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 turnovers. Will's been playing nicely as Jose Calderon's (hamstring) fill-in starter. He's put up solid numbers, and despite 5 fouls (refs in Europe are much more lenient on guard physicality) he has kept the ball in control, which is all one can ask from him.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raptors didn't really play that well. Of course, we know a W's a W, but the only thing that really saved them was shooting. The Raps owned a +7 advantage at the free throw line (17-20 for 85% compared to 10-18 for 55.6%) and shot an impressive 54.4% (37-68) from the field compared to Washington's 46.4% (39-84). Toronto's hot shooting helped overshadow a brutal twenty turnovers (Washington had 12), and Jamison's abysmal 3-8 shooting from the line certainly helped matters as well.
Next Game: Friday, January 7th, 7:00 PM vs. Memphis Grizzles
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Raptors' New Year Unhappy - 114-107 Nuggets
The Raptors had no problems scoring last night on New Year's Eve (Happy New Year everybody!) but they had problems galore on the defensive end. Five Raptors scored in double figures, led by Andrea Bargnani's 26 points, but the Nuggets finished with an amazing seven players in double figures - only Anthony Carter (0 in 11 minutes) and Dahntay Jones (4 in 16 minutes) didn't have effective scoring nights, as everyone else found some way to score even in their limited playing time.
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Andrea Bargnani finally broke out of his slump yesterday, starting out very slowly on offense but finishing with very impressive numbers of 26 points (9-19 FG, 3-6 3FG, 5-5 FT), 6 rebounds, 5 blocks and 2 steals. While Bargnani won't put up those stats on a regular basis (especially on teams that at least attempt to play defense, unlike the Nuggets) it should serve as a confidence booster for him.
Notables:
Chris Bosh - 24 points (7-18 FG, 0-3 3FG, 10-13 FT), 11 rebounds. Bosh was hounded all night by guards and forwards alike, and while he didn't shoot very well, he still managed to get to the line and find ways to be effective, particularly on the boards: he had 4 offensive rebounds.
Jose Calderon - 18 points (6-9 FG, 4-4 3FG, 2-2 FT), 11 assists, 5 rebounds. Jose continued his spectacular distribution and shooting, but one thing stands out. Last night he had 5 turnovers, and against Golden State he had four. Now everyone is allowed a slump, but Jose - and yes, he did have 27 assists to go with those 9 turnovers - is one of the most consistent guards in the league, and he needs to help carry this team.
Anthony Parker - 12 points (5-10 FG, 2-4 3FG), 6 assists, 4 rebounds, 3 steals. Parker was a starter again (finally) and played passable defense on the Nuggets perimeter players (J.R. Smith and Dahntay Jones combined for just 14 points on 7-17 shooting). He also had a nice game getting active on the boards and helping to distibute. Parker needs to contribute to give this team hope.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
This game was actually remarkably close in every statistical category (check the box). However, the Raptors' swiss cheese defense again allowed Denver penetration and scoring almost at will. The Nuggets shot 51.2% (42-82) from the floor and 44.4% (8-18) from the arc, to the Raptors' 46.9% (38-81) from the field and 41.7% (10-24) from three. Defense, fellas. And all that even with Jason Kapono out there as a pylon.
Next Game: Friday, January 2nd, 7:00 PM vs. Houston Rockets
NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Andrea Bargnani finally broke out of his slump yesterday, starting out very slowly on offense but finishing with very impressive numbers of 26 points (9-19 FG, 3-6 3FG, 5-5 FT), 6 rebounds, 5 blocks and 2 steals. While Bargnani won't put up those stats on a regular basis (especially on teams that at least attempt to play defense, unlike the Nuggets) it should serve as a confidence booster for him.
Notables:
Chris Bosh - 24 points (7-18 FG, 0-3 3FG, 10-13 FT), 11 rebounds. Bosh was hounded all night by guards and forwards alike, and while he didn't shoot very well, he still managed to get to the line and find ways to be effective, particularly on the boards: he had 4 offensive rebounds.
Jose Calderon - 18 points (6-9 FG, 4-4 3FG, 2-2 FT), 11 assists, 5 rebounds. Jose continued his spectacular distribution and shooting, but one thing stands out. Last night he had 5 turnovers, and against Golden State he had four. Now everyone is allowed a slump, but Jose - and yes, he did have 27 assists to go with those 9 turnovers - is one of the most consistent guards in the league, and he needs to help carry this team.
Anthony Parker - 12 points (5-10 FG, 2-4 3FG), 6 assists, 4 rebounds, 3 steals. Parker was a starter again (finally) and played passable defense on the Nuggets perimeter players (J.R. Smith and Dahntay Jones combined for just 14 points on 7-17 shooting). He also had a nice game getting active on the boards and helping to distibute. Parker needs to contribute to give this team hope.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
This game was actually remarkably close in every statistical category (check the box). However, the Raptors' swiss cheese defense again allowed Denver penetration and scoring almost at will. The Nuggets shot 51.2% (42-82) from the floor and 44.4% (8-18) from the arc, to the Raptors' 46.9% (38-81) from the field and 41.7% (10-24) from three. Defense, fellas. And all that even with Jason Kapono out there as a pylon.
Next Game: Friday, January 2nd, 7:00 PM vs. Houston Rockets
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Raptors Get Needed W - 101-95 Raps
Q: What happens when you take the Raptors on Tuesday and add Jose Calderon?
A: We don't really have a punch line, but the Raptors are a lot better with him.
Jose had a game - the only phrase that comes to mind is "ruthlessly efficient" - what we've now really come to expect. He's hurting, no doubt. A man averaging nine assists and double figures in points doesn't reach either figure, posting 7 dimes and 9 points, but you can see it in every possession. Nothing forced. No out-of-control spinning drives that end in "didn't I have the ball a second ago?". Just pretty, intelligent basketball. Jose committed one turnover. He had two steals including a game-changing pick and bucket at the other end. We like this guy.
Read the NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Andrea Bargnani was due for a good game - he had a bad game against Orlando, after all - and posted a season high in points with 25 (on 9-15 FG, 3-4 3FG, 4-4 FT) and added four boards and two blocks just for kicks. He did what he's supposed to do - score. It worked.
Notables:
Chris Bosh - 15 points (7-17 FG, 1-1 FT), 11 rebounds, 2 steals. If his 40-and-18 was an ICBM, this was a tactical cruise missile. He saved a little of his energy, didn't kill himself on every possession, and let JO and AP do some work. Isn't it nice when your superstar can take an off night and put up a double-double?
Jermaine O'Neal - 16 points (8-17 FG), 17 boards, 3 assists. JO seems like he's getting in the habit of owning the backboards. Fifth straight game with a double-double. Double double-doubles from down low is a very nice thing.
Anthony Parker - 19 points (6-12 FG, 5-5 3FG, 2-2 FT), 6 rebounds. AP showed up on offense! He was guarding Wade, and he gave up 40, but Flash is one of the best scorers in the league. At least Mr. Parker gave Dwyane something to worry about on the opposite end, making every one of his five threes.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raptors shot 9-13 (69.2%) from the Land of Three Points, led by Parker's perfect 5. Bargs was 3-4, Jose went 1-2, and Moon and Kapono each missed one. This team looks more like the one that was so fun to watch in the first three games. Let's hope it stays that way, shall we?
Next game: Friday, November 21, 7:00PM vs. New Jersey Nets
A: We don't really have a punch line, but the Raptors are a lot better with him.
Jose had a game - the only phrase that comes to mind is "ruthlessly efficient" - what we've now really come to expect. He's hurting, no doubt. A man averaging nine assists and double figures in points doesn't reach either figure, posting 7 dimes and 9 points, but you can see it in every possession. Nothing forced. No out-of-control spinning drives that end in "didn't I have the ball a second ago?". Just pretty, intelligent basketball. Jose committed one turnover. He had two steals including a game-changing pick and bucket at the other end. We like this guy.
Read the NBA.com recap
Player of the Game:
Andrea Bargnani was due for a good game - he had a bad game against Orlando, after all - and posted a season high in points with 25 (on 9-15 FG, 3-4 3FG, 4-4 FT) and added four boards and two blocks just for kicks. He did what he's supposed to do - score. It worked.
Notables:
Chris Bosh - 15 points (7-17 FG, 1-1 FT), 11 rebounds, 2 steals. If his 40-and-18 was an ICBM, this was a tactical cruise missile. He saved a little of his energy, didn't kill himself on every possession, and let JO and AP do some work. Isn't it nice when your superstar can take an off night and put up a double-double?
Jermaine O'Neal - 16 points (8-17 FG), 17 boards, 3 assists. JO seems like he's getting in the habit of owning the backboards. Fifth straight game with a double-double. Double double-doubles from down low is a very nice thing.
Anthony Parker - 19 points (6-12 FG, 5-5 3FG, 2-2 FT), 6 rebounds. AP showed up on offense! He was guarding Wade, and he gave up 40, but Flash is one of the best scorers in the league. At least Mr. Parker gave Dwyane something to worry about on the opposite end, making every one of his five threes.
Full box score
Stat of the Game:
The Raptors shot 9-13 (69.2%) from the Land of Three Points, led by Parker's perfect 5. Bargs was 3-4, Jose went 1-2, and Moon and Kapono each missed one. This team looks more like the one that was so fun to watch in the first three games. Let's hope it stays that way, shall we?
Next game: Friday, November 21, 7:00PM vs. New Jersey Nets
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