[14-16] Raptors : Colossus of Losses | Around the NBA - DEC

[Lamrock]

You know the season's going bad when you're looking to trade your leading scorer for an expiring nine games into the season.

[john26]

lmao! Where do you come up with this? That lakerland section was comedy!

Thanks man....just reading stuff from other forums and some experiences

You know the season's going bad when you're looking to trade your leading scorer for an expiring nine games into the season.

Haha yeah, got that right bro.

[john26]

Raptors Battle, But Can't Get Past Celtics In Boston
Nov 23, 2011

Recap | Team Stats | Highlights

It was over when...
Both teams were toe-to-toe in the first three quarters. The Raptors erased an early 7 point deficit using respectable runs in the second and third quarters to trail by just 1 after 36 minutes of play.

The fourth quarter saw the more experienced Celtics team make a run to lead 92-81 with 2 minutes to go, and the younger Raptors team struggle to knock down shots. A couple of three pointers from Wes Johnson made the margin more respectable and even gave Toronto a chance to send it to overtime. After Rajon Rondo missed two free throws with 13 seconds to go, the Raptors went to the hot hand, Wes Johnson. Unfortunately, he couldn't drill the 27-footer to make it a two point game.

The Game Changer(s)...
Paul Pierce was huge (30 points - game high), but Ray Allen was just as crucial as the game wore on for Boston. Seven of his 11 points came in the final quarter, with nearly every shot keeping the Raptors at bay in a tight game. The guy charged with covering him certainly took something away from the performance.

"He definitely sets them [opponents] up and comes off looking to score and knock down that jumper," said DeMar DeRozan. "He doesn't miss to many shots and you can tell by the last three minutes that he was going to start knocking them down."

The Underrated Raptor...
Don't let the shooting numbers fool you (8-21 FG, 0-4 3PT), DeMar DeRozan had another strong game as a handful of his misses were good looks that went halfway down or aggressive drives that invited a lot of contact.

He still scored 21 points on Sunday to boost his scoring average over the past four games to 18.0 ppg. But most impressive was getting to the line 5 times and hitting all attempts to cap a perfect effort from the stripe. So what's been the secret to his bounce back season at the line? "Working with Coach English every day on free throws," said Johnson. "Before we leave the gym we shoot about 50 free throws, almost 100 free throws a day. I owe it to him."

That's A Rap...
"I don't think we're playing the game right now the way we're supposed to play it. I'm just trying to get minutes and get these guys legs under them and get them playing defence the way we want to play it. You’ve got to make shots. Our guys that shoot the best didn’t shoot the ball very well tonight. I mean as for Caron (Butler), Leandro (Barbosa) and Andrea (Bargnani) had 3 field goals each. I mean we need more from those guys''

- Dwane Casey following Sunday's loss in Boston. Butler, Barbosa and Bargnani combined for 7-25 shooting from the field. 

SCORES
Toronto 87 - W. Johnson 22, DeRozan 21, Bayless 12, Davis 11, Barbosa 7, Bargnani 6, Butler 4, A. Johnson 4

Boston 92 - Pierce 30, Rondo 19, Green 14, Allen 11, Garnett 10, Bass 4, Bradley 2, Redd 2

By quarter: 18-25, 18-16, 27-23, 24-28

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 22 pts/4 stl/9-17 FG
DeRozan: 21 pts/4 ast/1 stl/1 blk/5-5 FT
A. Johnson: 4 pts/9 reb/1 stl

Boston
Pierce: 30 pts/2 reb/12-18 FG/5-5 FT
Rondo: 19 pts/5 reb/5 ast/7-12 FG
Garnett: 10 pts/11 reb/1 ast

RECORD: 2-8
NEXT GAME: @ Heat

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Bargnani has 16 off the bench, Raps put away Heat with ease
Nov 25, 2011

Recap | Team Stats | Highlights 

It was over when...
The Raptors started out with a strong effort, holding the Heat to 9% shooting in the first six minutes of action and outscoring them, 12-2. Their offense continued to flourish in the third quarter, with Andrea Bargnani providing 16 points off the bench, including 4 threes (3 of which came in the third).

The Heat's attempts to get back in the game were denied when Caron Butler supercharged a decisive 7-0 run with a driving layup and vicious putback jam, Wes Johnson stepped up with a block on Mario Chalmers' jumper and went for a fastbreak dunk on the other end to give the Raptors their biggest lead with three minutes to play.

The Game Changer(s)...
Andrea Bargnani seems to have accepted his sixth man role. Il Mago gave a glimpse of his ability to provide instant offence from the bench, igniting the Raptors in the second half with 13 of his 16 points on the night.

He was particularly good at the end of the third and to start the fourth, scoring 12 points in about a four-minute stretch, including a long jumper to beat the shot clock over Joel Anthony and a pair of three-pointers.

The Underrated Raptor...
Wes Johnson was outstanding in just over 24 minutes of work with 19 points, 5 rebounds, three blocks and some determined defence. He was active on the defence with one aggressive swat immediately upon the start of the game on a Miami fastbreak and several other shots altered with his quickness and length. Even a couple of his five fouls were strong attempts to protect the rim.

That's A Rap...
“They (the Raptors) made shots. They were doing a great job from a defensive standpoint and we couldn’t get an advantage on offence. We had a couple of good defences but we didn’t get an advantage off of that."

- Dwyane Wade, on the fourth quarter 

SCORES
Toronto 98 - W. Johnson 19, DeRozan 17, Bargnani 16, Bayless 16, Butler 8, A. Johnson 8, Davis 6, Barbosa 6, Whiteside 2

Miami 83 - James 31, Wade 20, Bosh 11, Chalmers 9, Battier 6, Anthony 4, Miller 2

By quarter: 26-18, 21-21, 26-21, 25-23

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
DeRozan: 17 pts/7 reb/7-11 FG
W. Johnson: 19 pts/5 reb/3 blk
Bayless: 16 pts/7 reb/5 ast

Miami
James: 31 pts/7 reb/4 ast/14-26 FG/3-3 3PT
Wade: 20 pts/4 ast/2 stl/8-9 FT
Bosh: 11 pts/10 reb/3 ast

RECORD: 3-8
NEXT GAME: @ Magic

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Nov 26, 2011 • Raptors 94, Magic 117
MAGIC HI POINTS: Richardson 22 | REBOUNDS: Howard 16 | ASSISTS: Arenas 9
RAPTORS HI POINTS: DeRozan 23 | REBOUNDS: W. Johnson 8 | ASSISTS: Bayless 8

Gilbert Arenas came 2 rebounds and an assist shy of a triple double as the Orlando Magic rolled to a 114-97 victory Saturday night over the Toronto Raptors.

RECORD: 3-9
NEXT GAME: v Celtics

[john26]

Raptors Player Card | Andrea Bargnani

Position: C-PF

By The Numbers:
2010-11 | 21.4 ppg, 5.2 rpg, .448 FG
2011-12 | 7.6 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 1.2 bpg

Scouting Report:
- Solid shooter when his feet is set, uses quickness to blow-by slow footed centers
- Terrible rebounder, a waste of seven feet on boards
- Pathetic defender; slow to react on help defense and a regressing man-to-man defender

When Chris Bosh decided to leave for Miami, the Toronto Raptors gave their key to the franchise to Andrea Bargnani. They should have shown him the door, too. From last season, it has become apparent that he either needs to go, or take on a smaller role. As the go to guy in the Raptors offence, Andrea Bargnani has established himself as one of the premier scoring big men in the NBA. This past season he averaged 21.4 points a game. A fairly respectable figure.

Too bad that’s all he does. Sadly, referring to his offensive numbers as respectable discounts his decline in field goal percentage and increased turnover rate on the from the 2009-10 season. What is worse is Bargnani’s insistence on slacking at the defensive end, which is simply inexcusable. It isn’t a coincidence that in the two years that Bargnani has been given a more prominent role in the organization the Raptors have sported the league’s worst defensive efficiency.

You might think that he's playing out of position, and he should slide to the 4, but whatever position he plays in the frontcourt (4 or 5) he will still be the same as his two main weaknesses (defense and rebounding) are the specialty of most power forwards and centres playing in the league.

On help defense switches, he gets lost. He seems to be always a play behind on defense, always a second slower to react resulting in a layup fest for the opposing team. His man-on-man defense is worse. He used to have a knack of blocking post-ups, but last season, he showed no interest in this area as well. Even Omer Asik was able to create his own shot against the great enigma.

Bargnani's offensive game mainly consists of taking low percentage shots. And it doesn't help that he's a ball stopper who doesn't create for others. Bargnani, while having the ball at the top of the key, likes to go for a few dribbles and stop at 17-19 feet to throw up a brick, an airball or commit a travelling violation. He is better suited as a spot up shooter, setting up at the top of the key as this is where he excelled last year (also with centers taught to defend the basket, it is likely that he'll get some space setting up from this spot).

One thing he does really well but needs to do more often, is to use his quickness to get past his defender for a layup or dunk. It may be a mental problem with Bargnani, because everytime he drives to the basket it seems that something good happens (draws a foul, or makes a high percentage shot). But he rarely puts this quickness to use and a better coach/team could inspire him to do this a lot more.

Spin:
Bargnani hasn't done a ton of scoring this season after being relegated at the start of the year to a bench role and his numbers have taken a hit with some young, up-and-coming players surrounding him in Toronto. While he does not rebound like a typical big-man, his ability to score and shoot the ball from beyond the arc makes him a different type of breed.

When Chris Bosh took his talents elsewhere, Bargnani became the focal point of the Raptors' offense. The career-high 21.4 ppg last year was nice, but it came with a price to his overall game. Specifically, his field goal percentage, 3s, rebounds and blocks all dropped; plus, he had a career-high 2.3 turnovers per game. His durability in that bigger role also was an issue, as he missed 16 games. He's about to enter his prime, so we should see his field goal and 3-point percentages rise. However, he's not going to rebound or block shots like a big man nor will he add anything of value in dimes or steals. Bargnani right now is a guard in a big mans body. He needs some work, but is already a decent player. He has the potential to be an All-Star and has some work to do.

[john26]

Allen scores 22 as Celtics nip Raptors in OT
Nov 29, 2011

Recap | Team Stats | Highlights

It was over when...
Despite a sub-par shooting night from the three point land (4-25 3PM-A) and at the free throw line, the undermanned Raptors stayed with the Celics well into the fourth quarter and tasted their first lead of the game, 76-75, on a three ball by Jerryd Bayless from the top of the key with three minutes to play.

The Raptors added to the margin with Wes Johnson's fastbreak dunk over Rajon Rondo and a layup by DeMar DeRozan to lead 84-80 with 30 seconds to play. After a fadeaway jumper from the post by Kevin Garnett, Bayless had the chance to ice the game at the line however he split his free throws and this setup Ray Allen to hit his own three at the buzzer and send it to overtime. Allen then opened the extra period with two quick baskets and the Raptors were unable to recover.

The Game Changer(s)...
The hot fourth-quarter shooting of Allen propelled the Celtics late, but Kevin Garnett's second half gave the Celtics a big boost. The Boston power forward was looking more to create his own offence and attack coming out of halftime, scoring 12 of his 19 points after the break.

"In the first half we tried to run to get some continuity and get more guys involved," Boston head coach Doc Rivers said. "In the second half we used (Kevin) Garnett as our attack weapon, so that is basically what happened."

The Underrated Raptor...
It was a tough night for the Raptors, but if there was someone who deserves some credit it had to have been Wes Johnson, who with a hurt knee still managed to put up some decent numbers.

Johnson made some key plays to keep the Raptors in the game with 21 points, 11 rebounds, 4 steals and a block.

That's A Rap...
"We needed the win no matter what. We are not happy or satisfied with ourselves because we played good; we had ups and downs throughout the game."

- Ray Allen on the victory 

Injury Update
Caron Butler - Twisted Ankle, Day-to-day
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain, 2-4 weeks

SCORES
Boston 94 - Allen 22, Garnett 19, Green 17, Dalembert 14, Redd 8, Rondo 8, Carney 3, O'neal 3

Toronto 89 - W. Johnson 21, DeRozan 21, Bayless 19, Davis 12, Butler 7, Bargnani 5, Barbosa 2, A. Johnson 2

By quarter: 27-18, 17-18, 19-21, 22-28, OT 9-4

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 21 pts/11 reb/4 stl/1 blk/9-18 FG
DeRozan: 21 pts/4 reb/3 stl/5-7 FT
Bayless: 19 pts/6 reb/5 ast

Boston
Allen: 22 pts/6 reb/5 ast
J. Green: 17 pts/14 reb/1 blk/8-11 FG
Garnett: 19 pts/7 reb/3 blk/8-16 FG


JORDAN BRAND Play of the Game
Wesley Johnson dunks on Rondo, gives him the finger point a la MJ

phpBB [video]

RECORD: 3-10
NEXT GAME: @ Bucks

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Nov 30, 2011 • Raptors 94, Bucks 98
RAPTORS HI POINTS: DeRozan 20 | REBOUNDS: Davis 8 | ASSISTS: Butler 3
BUCKS HI POINTS: Jennings 23 | REBOUNDS: Bogut 14 | ASSISTS: Udrih 6

Brandon Jennings dominated late in the game and won his scoring battle versus Compton native DeMar DeRozan to finish with a game high 23 points and lead the Bucks to their 5th win in 14 games. Drew Gooden added 21 points and 9 boards for Milwaukee.

RECORD: 3-11
NEXT GAME: v Heat

Wes steals the show for Toronto to hold off Heat Big Three in OT
Dec 2, 2011

Recap | Team Stats | Highlights

It was over when...
The first half was an up and down affair with several lead changes and Miami just holding a 5 point advantage heading into halftime. Third quarter saw Heat forward LeBron James dominate, scoring 15 of his 29 points in regulation to give the Heat a 10 point lead with the fourth quarter to play.

But the Raptors worked hard and fought back. Wes Johnson sparked a .. run that saw the score tied at 83 with a layup of his on the break and then pushing Dwyane Wade to the floor as he landed. After the Heat scored 5 points to hold a 88-83 lead, Ed Davis got to the line and hit two shots while Wes Johnson added a three pointer, his 5th of the game, to knot it up at 88.

DeMar DeRozan extended the lead to 94-89 and a minute to play with two wide open fastbreak dunks as a result of a couple of outstanding defensive possessions which saw the Raptors play zone.

The Heat weren't done yet. LeBron James hit a quick layup on the other end. The Heat's stifling defense then forced Jerryd Bayless to throw an errant pass which resulted to a three point play from Udonis Haslem that tied the game. With 10 seconds to play, Wes Johnson failed to hit a 15-footer at the buzzer over Wade that sent the game to overtime.

In the extra period, momentum quickly shifted to the Raptors and the Heat were unable to recover. They opened overtime with an outstanding defensive play, Wes Johnson getting back on defense just in time to deny a Dwyane Wade layup. He then hit a post shot on the other end and a three pointer to spearhead a 13-4 run, capped off by a putback dunk by DeRozan on a Caron Butler miss.

The Game Changer(s)...
Caron Butler was outstanding in holding off his longtime rival (from the Cavs-Wizards rivalry) LeBron James. When Raptors coach Dwane Casey put Butler on James in OT, James was held scoreless which eventually led to Miami's demise.

But it was Wes Johnson who stole the show and put the team on his back to victory. With DeRozan and Ed Davis both plagued by foul trouble, Johnson stepped up to the plate to score ... and was hot from downtown, 5 for 11.

The Underrated Raptor...
Wondering who it was who kept the Raptors in the game in the first half? It was Amir Johnson. Amir was instrumental in keeping the game close for Toronto, with 6 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocked shots by halftime. He finished the game earlier than planned (due to a strained back 3 minutes left in the 4th) with a near double double (8 pts, 9 reb, 3 blks).

That's A Rap...
“We were smart on offense, and even smarter on defense tonight. When I put Wes at the 2 and DeMar at the 3, and had Ed play the 4 while Amir manned the 5, everybody was just flowing. Everyone was playing to their strengths. Nobody had to do too much dribbling on offense, it was like a well oiled machine... And on defense, we were outstanding. We played this type of defense called 'Zone'. It's their (Miami) achilles heel and something they need to learn to play with."

- Dwane Casey on winning against the league best Heat 

Injury Update
Caron Butler - Twisted Ankle, Day-to-day
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks

SCORES
Miami 98 - James 31, Wade 23, Haslem 13, Bosh 12, Miller 9, Chalmers 7, Battier 3

Toronto 107 - W. Johnson 29, DeRozan 21, Bargnani 16, Davis 15, Butler 9, A. Johnson 8, Bayless 5, Barbosa 4

By quarter: 26-22, 18-17, 30-25, 20-30, OT 4-13

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 29 pts/4 ast/3 stl/1 blk/12-24 FG/5-11 3PT
DeRozan: 21 pts/9 reb/3 ast/1 blk/9-15 FG
Davis: 15 pts/8 reb/1 blk/6-7 FG

Miami
James: 31 pts/5 reb/5 ast/2 stl/13-20 FG/2-2 3PT
Wade: 23 pts/5 reb/2 blk/10-15 FG
Haslem: 13 pts/10 reb


JORDAN BRAND Play of the Game
Wesley Johnson uses Dwyane Wade to mop the floor

phpBB [video]

RECORD: 4-11
NEXT GAME: v Knicks

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[kibaxx7]

As I like to say, "simple but effective". Nice job here man. Going strong

[john26]

As I like to say, "simple but effective". Nice job here man. Going strong

Thanks buddy

[john26]

LEAGUE LEADERS

Points: Kobe Bryant LAL 33.7 ppg
Rebounds: Dwight Howard ORL 12.3 rpg
Assists: Rajon Rondo BOS 9.8 apg
Steals: Rajon Rondo BOS 2.5 spg
Blocks: Josh Smith ATL 2.2 bpg

FG%: Ed Davis TOR .632 3PT: Daquean Cook OKC .577 FT%: Ben Gordon DET .968

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK/MONTH

Week - East | West
Nov 1-5 LeBron James (MIA) | Manu Ginobili (SAS)
Nov 6-12 Carmelo Anthony (NYK) | Kobe Bryant (LAL)
Nov 13-19 LeBron James (MIA) | Kevin Durant (OKC)
Nov 20-26 Dwyane Wade (MIA) | Dirk Nowitzki (DAL)

Kia Motors Players of the Month for November
LeBron James MIA 31.1 ppg 7.5 rpg 5.5 apg 2.2 spg 0.9 bpg
Kobe Bryant LAL 33.7 ppg 4.6 rpg 4.5 apg 2.3 spg 0.5 bpg

ALL-STAR GAME VOTING - LEADERS

Guards - East | West
Derrick Rose CHI (563482) | Kobe Bryant LAL (890992)
Deron Williams NJN (512066) | Russell Westbrook OKC (580217)
Dwyane Wade MIA (384748) | Chris Paul LAC (570262)

Forwards - East | West
LeBron James MIA (849447) | Dirk Nowitzki DAL (828191)
Carmelo Anthony NYK (589017) | Kevin Durant OKC (750653)
Josh Smith ATL (402190) | Blake Griffin LAC (424408)

Centers - East | West
Dwight Howard ORL (556161) | Al Jefferson UTJ (318925)
Al Horford ATL (263252) | Chris Kaman NOH (248356)


ROOKIE REPORT - LEADERS

Points: Derrick Williams MIN 15.5 ppg
Rebounds: Bismack Biyombo CHA 9.6 rpg
Assists: Kyrie Irving CLE 6.8 apg
Steals: Markieff Morris PHX 1.6 spg
Blocks: Tristan Thompson CLE 1.5 bpg

T-Mobile Rookies of the Month for November
Kyrie Irving CLE 12.5 ppg (4th among rookies), 6.8 apg (1st among rookies), 1.3 spg (2nd among rookies)
Jonas Valanciunas MIN 14.4 ppg (2nd among rookies), 6.6 rpg (6th among rookies), 1.3 bpg (3rd among rookies), .509 FG% (1st among rookies)

ROOKIE WATCH

Note: All rankings are among rookies.

La Pistola
Ricky Rubio MIN 5.1 ppg (28th), 2.3 apg (11th), 0.5 spg (17th)

Teach Me How to Jimmer
Jimmer Fredette SAC 4.5 ppg (34th), 0.8 apg (27th), .524 3PT (3rd)

Heart of A Champion
Kemba Walker CHA 4.0 ppg (37th), 5.3 apg (2nd), .897 FT% (5th)

From Turkey With Love
Enes Kanter UTJ 7.5 ppg (16th), 3.4 rpg (12th), 0.8 bpg (5th)

The Manimal
Kenneth Faried DEN 8.2 ppg (14th), 8.6 rpg (2nd), 1.4 bpg (2nd)

PLAYER STATS


STANDINGS


TEAM STATS - LEADERS

Points: LAL 106.5 | 29th TOR 89.1
Points Allowed: BOS 87.4 | 10th TOR 93.9
Pts Differential: LAL 13.4 | 24th TOR -4.8
Rebounds: MIA 52.8 | 29th TOR 41.8
Assists: OKC 26.5 | 14th TOR 19.8
Steals: DAL 11.0 | 10th TOR 8.0
Blocks: MIA 7.1 | 21st TOR 3.7

FG%: LAL .504 | 20th TOR .435
3PT: DET .445 | 30th TOR .212
FT%: POR .832 | 21st TOR .752

[john26]

Dec 4, 2011 • Knicks 81, Raptors 89
KNICKS HI POINTS: Stoudemire 24 | REBOUNDS: Fields 11 | ASSISTS: Douglas 6
RAPTORS HI POINTS: DeRozan 19 | REBOUNDS: A. Johnson 14 | ASSISTS: DeRozan 3

Scrappy defense and rebounding helped the Toronto Raptors put away the visiting New York Knicks (29-73 FG, 3-21 3PT) in a low scoring affair.

RECORD: 5-11
NEXT GAME: @ Nets

Butler puts off feisty Nets with game winning triple
Dec 5, 2011

Recap | Team Stats | Highlights

It was over when...
The Raptors came out of halftime fired up and led by as much as 12 in the 3rd period. Midway through the quarter (with Toronto leading 60-52), Wes Johnson went down with a nasty ankle injury. Johnson's absence from the rest of the game was a key factor in the Nets' comeback. NJ closed the third quarter with an 18-8 spurt and led by 12 with 12 minutes to play thanks to a jumper by rookie Marshon Brooks.

But the Raptors were able to hold off the feisty Nets' rally. Leandro Barbosa and Caron Butler played the bulk of the minutes at the 2 and 3 in the 4th to help Toronto to a 77-72 lead with 6 minutes left. After Deron Williams scored 10 of his game high 26 points to put his team on top, 82-79, the Raptors clawed back in the game with a DeRozan dunk, a Bayless three pointer and another three from Caron Butler. Butler's shot put the Raptors in the driver's seat by a point with 9.7 seconds to play. This was enough to win, as Marshon Brooks' attempt at the buzzer did not fall.

The Game Changer(s)...
These things get a bit redundant when great players like Butler are involved, but his heroic game-winning shot only tells part of the story on a resilient night for the versatile forward.

He only scored 11 points, but saved 9 of those for the fourth quarter when his team needed him to become the game changer. Until then, the Nets held on to leads for a few short stretches. His defense was also outstanding, helping the Raptors hold the Nets to only 16 fourth quarter points. While Butler enjoyed some favourable calls down the stretch, there is no denying his 42% output from the field to go along with 4-4 free throws, a steal and a block.

The Underrated Raptor...
Still struggling with his shot was DeMar DeRozan (5-20 FG, 0-7 3PT), but his contribution in the last two minutes changed the outcome of the game.

He drove to the lane for a jam that closed the gap 82-81. After the Nets made a basket on the next possession, he found Jerryd Bayless on the corner for a 3 to tie the game. He finished the game with 14 points but also dished out a team high 4 assists, with Bayless experiencing difficulty to get the offense going.

That's A Rap...
“We knew it was going to be an isolation. He doesn't like to have screen rolls because it brings somebody else there. We ran at him anyway. He saw the trap coming. Escaped away from it. Tough shot.” - Avery Johnson, on Caron Butler's game winning three 

Injury Update
Caron Butler - Twisted Ankle, Day-to-day
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks

SCORES
Toronto 87 - W. Johnson 19, Bayless 17, DeRozan 14, Butler 11, Bargnani 11, Davis 9, Barbosa 6

New Jersey 86 - Williams 26, Lopez 20, Brooks 15, Martin 12, James 5, Bogdanovic 2, Farmar 2, Outlaw 2, Morrow 2

By quarter: 18-27, 30-17, 20-26, 19-16

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 19 pts/7 reb/7-12 FG/3-4 3PT
DeRozan: 14 pts/4 ast
Davis: 9 pts/7 reb/2 ast/2 blk

New Jersey
Williams: 26 pts/4 reb/4 ast/11-18 FG
Lopez: 20 pts/7 reb/4 blk/8-16 FG
Martin: 12 pts/13 reb


JORDAN BRAND Play of the Game
Caron Butler hits game winning 3

phpBB [video]

RECORD: 6-11
NEXT GAME: v Thunder

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Raptors bow down to Thunder after DeRozan leaves the game
Dec 7, 2011

Recap | Team Stats | Highlights

It was over when...
DeMar DeRozan was having a good offensive game (23 points, 19 in the first half), when he went down hard to the floor going for a rebound and left the game with a broken ankle. The Raptors were holding an 8-point advantage that time, and DeRozan's injury allowed the Thunder back in the game (finishing the third quarter down 74-72) .

From here on, OKC took over on both ends of the floor. After Ibaka blocked a couple of layups to the basket on two separate possessions, the Raptors had trouble finding their offense and started relying on the jump shot which wasn't falling. Russell Westbrook tore apart the Raptors defense on the other end, scoring 8 points in the fourth to finish with 29 as the Thunder avenged getting swept a year ago in the season series.

The Game Changer(s)...
As mention earlier, Serge Ibaka was a force late in the game. Ibaka blocked two layups, which killed the Raptors momentum and forced them to settle for jumpshots in the fourth quarter, and he made a dunk on the 7 minute mark to put OKC on top, 85-83. The Thunder never looked back.

The Underrated Raptor...
The Raptors got a big game from their young point guard, Jerryd Bayless. He brought a complete game and put up a performance coach Casey called his finest as a Raptor. With Wes Johnson and DeMar DeRozan sidelined, Bayless more than shouldered the load. He flirted with a triple double, to the tune of season high 24 points, 14 assists and matched a career-high with 8 rebounds. He also shot the ball well, going 10 for 18 from the field overall.

That's A Rap...
“I can’t ask for much more from our guys. We have so many guys who are hurt and our margin of error isn’t very good, but I don’t know if Leandro (Barbosa) can play much better than he’s playing right now with the injury he has. Jerryd had one of his best games as a Raptor, he was a couple of rebounds away from a triple-double, career-high in rebounds, he was really solid."

- Dwane Casey, on the team's effort 

Injury Update
Caron Butler - Twisted Ankle, Day-to-day
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 6-8 weeks

SCORES
Oklahoma City 108 - Durant 32, Westbrook 29, Ibaka 14, Sefolosha 11, Howard 7, Robinson 6, Collison 6, Cook 3

Toronto 100 - Bayless 24, DeRozan 23, Barbosa 19, Butler 17, Davis 5, Wilcox 5, A. Johnson 4, Bargnani 3

By quarter: 26-22, 18-17, 30-25, 20-30, OT 4-13

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
Bayless: 24 pts/8 reb/13 ast/2 stl/10-18 FG
DeRozan: 23 pts/2 stl
Barbosa: 19 pts/7-13 FG/3-3 3PT

Oklahoma City
Durant: 32 pts/11 reb/2 blk
Westbrook: 29 pts/5 reb/6 ast/12-21 FG
Ibaka: 14 pts/5 reb/2 stl/2 blk/5-7 FG

RECORD: 6-12
NEXT GAME: @ Warriors

Related Articles
Celtics win 11th straight by downing Clippers (Dec 6)
Raptors activate Chris Wilcox for game versus Thunder (Dec 7)
Suns' Pietrus wants to see how much he is worth in free agency (Dec 7)
Knicks quietly making Fields available (Dec 8)
Raptors sign Rasual Butler (Dec 9)

Raptors sign veteran free-agent G Rasual Butler
TORONTO (AP)—The Toronto Raptors have signed veteran free-agent forward Rasual Butler. The six-foot-seven shooting guard split last season between the Clippers and Chicago Bulls and started in a combined 47 games, mostly with L.A.

Butler’s best statistical season came in 2009-10 with the Clippers when he averaged career bests of 11.9 points and 33.0 minutes in 82 games. He set a club record for made three-pointers in a season with 145. He also averaged a career playoff-best 10.6 points and 31.6 minutes in five playoff games with the New Orleans Hornets in 2008-09.

The 32-year-old has played nine NBA seasons, averaging 8.5 points, 2.6 rebounds and 23.9 minutes in 604 regular season games. A second-round selection by Miami in the 2002 NBA Draft, Butler has seen action with the Heat, Hornets, Clippers and Bulls. (Read more)

Warriors pull away win with Dorell Wright block
Dec 10, 2011

Recap | Team Stats | Highlights

It was over when...
With less than a minute to play, Golden State took a two point lead on a running jumper by Steph Curry. On the next possession, the Raptors got the ball to Caron Butler, who performed a head fake before going to the hoop for a layup with 3 seconds left in the shot clock against Golden State small forward Dorrell Wright.

Wright, who didn't fall for Butler's head fake, stayed with Butler on the drive and then rose to block the shot and leave a second in the shot clock and just 30 seconds in the game clock. Jerryd Bayless' attempt was nothing but net, but the referees waived his basket after the replay showed he didn't get it off on time. When the Warriors got the ball back, newly signed Rasual Butler fouled Curry despite having more than 24 seconds left in the game clock, and that was all she wrote.

The Game Changer(s)...
He wasn't the Game Changer based on the entire body of work as the Warriors' starting small forward on Saturday, but Dorrell Wright earns the nod for his persistence, resiliency and tougness on a crucial point in the game.

His game winning block saved the day for Golden State, who are now second in the Western Conference with a 15-6 record while the loss sent the Raptors to their 13th of the season in 19 games.

The Underrated Raptor...
On a team where poor starts are beginning to look like a persistent issue, Caron Butler was an exception to that rule for a second straight game. On Saturday, Butler poured in 13 of his team-high 23 points in the opening half, which accounted for nearly half of the team's offence in the opening 24 minutes.

He couldn't avoid the shooting woes that plagued his teammates in the third quarter, but he's continued his recent production -- averaging 15 ppg over his last six games.

That's A Rap...
"We had some decent looks at the end. Things have sort of spiraled in regards to how we try to end the basketball game. Hopefully we’ll turn that around next game."

- Caron Butler, on the team's loss 

Injury Update
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 6-8 weeks

SCORES
Toronto 93 - Butler 23, Barbosa 16, Bargnani 15, Bayless 14, Davis 9, Butler 9, A. Johnson 4, Wilcox 3

Golden State 97 - Curry 23, Ellis 18, Lee 12, Thornton 8, Thompson 8, Wright 7, Rush 6, Udoh 6, R. Williams 5, Jenkins 4

By quarter: 18-23, 30-30, 28-19, 17-25

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
Butler: 23 pts/6 reb/1 stl/10-18 FG/1-2 3PT
Bayless: 14 pts/5 reb/6 ast/1 stl
Barbosa: 16 pts/3 reb/6 ast/6-6 FT

Golden State
Curry: 23 pts/4 reb/7 ast/2 stl
Ellis: 18 pts/7-13 FG/2-4 3PT
Lee: 12 pts/8 reb/3 blk

RECORD: 6-13
NEXT GAME: @ Warriors

Related Articles
Caron Butler now back at full strength for Raptors (Dec 10)
Jordan Hill wants to see how much he is worth in free agency (Dec 10)
Rasual Butler activated by Raptors for tonight's game (Dec 10)
Bucks' Ilyasova to test value in free agency this summer (Dec 11)

[Mark.]

Shoot your unlucky with those injuries. Oh well lets watch those lottery balls roll come June eh?

[john26]

Shoot your unlucky with those injuries. Oh well lets watch those lottery balls roll come June eh?

Maybe, lol we'll wait and see

[john26]

Chapter 3: Ankle Insurance

Raptors playing at home against the Thunder...DeMar DeRozan heading to the locker room to get some assistance for an injury

"Oww, fuck it hurts" DeRozan cried in the locker room while being attended on by a medical staff. "Relax, I'm a doctor...Well I was before I took an arrow in the knee."

Outside, assistant general manager Jonathan Harring and general manager Bryan Colangelo waited to get briefed on DeRozan's status. "So how is he?"

The doctor responded, "looks like a broken ankle...he'll be out for about a month or two."

"Broken ankle, huh? Sorry but we don't have any money to get you in a hos--" Colangelo pondered. As soon as he said those words, a tall, black man riding a white horse appeared out of nowhere. He was wearing a suit, and his face looked familiar. "Black mamba?" Harring whisphered.

"It'll happen when you least expect it...Hello, I'm Kobe Bryant (President and CEO of Ankle Insurance, CO.) and I'm here to talk about something you and your loved ones should consider if you play basketball...I'm talking about ankle insurance..."

The horse that the man was riding neighed to show its support to its master. 'Shhh...," the man stroked the horse to calm it. "Broken ankles can strike anywhere at anytime...they can happen at anyone...doesn't matter if you're a point guard, or a shooting guard, or a small forward, or a power forward, or a center, or a sixth man...the bottom line is having a protection. If you, or someone you love has ankles and plays basketball, do something about it...go to notmybrokenankles.com, it might be the most important decision you ever made...broken ankles will happen...but not to you." He twirls his foot as a sign of obvious sarcasm to finish his speech.

"Funny...you say "the bottom line is having a protection"...this coming from a rapist?" Harring joked. But Colangelo thought the joke was uncalled for. "Yo camel mouth, that's Kobe Bryant right there...anyways, this ankle insurance seems interesting. Drop them a message, will you?"

Subject: Ankle Insurance
From: Jonathan Harring (jh@raptors.com)
Message:
Hey,
We want to inquire about some ankle insurance.

Subject: Re: Ankle Insurance
From: Black Mamba (blackmamba@notmybrokenankles.com)
Message:
What the hell is wrong with you? Do you have any idea what time it is?

Oh, so in your drunken stupor you decided it would be a good idea to wake up my entire family at 3:30 in the morning? I have my computer hooked up to a 7.1 surround sound system, and Outlook plays a sound every time I receive an e-mail. It damn near rattled the house when you sent it. You woke up my wife, who suffers from sleep anxiety and has to get up for work at 6, and our three month old baby and now he is crying.

I have a meeting with some big-time clients today, and now I am going to be falling asleep in the meeting. By the way, my wife was so distraught from you waking her up that she accidentally microwaved our baby's milk too long. The baby was scalded with burning hot milk, and now we have to go to the hospital. I hope you are happy with yourself. Thanks a lot, douchebag.

"Well...that ankle insurance thing didn't work out. Guess we'll have to pay this time..." Harring told his superior while holding a Jorge Garbajosa poster in his hand.

The next game...

The PA announcer read out the starting 5 for the game. "At forward, standing 6 foot 7, from La Salle, Rasoooooool......... But-ler!!!"

phpBB [video]

[Mark.]

"Relax, I'm a doctor...Well I was before I took an arrow in the knee."

Hahaha love it, Skyrim fan are you?

[Martti.]

Or 9gag?

Anyway, I've missed some updates. Have to catch up.

[john26]

"Relax, I'm a doctor...Well I was before I took an arrow in the knee."

Hahaha love it, Skyrim fan are you?

Or 9gag?

Anyway, I've missed some updates. Have to catch up.

I just been reading a lot of arrow in the knee jokes in other forums. Updates coming soon.

[kibaxx7]

"holding a Jorge Garbajosa poster". Hopefully Rasual will give you a little boost until DD comes back.

[john26]

"holding a Jorge Garbajosa poster". Hopefully Rasual will give you a little boost until DD comes back.

Like IRL?

[john26]

Dysfunctional Kings put up little fight against Raptors
Dec 11, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Bayless beats the clock in 1st half | Offbalance J by Caron | Block Party | Ed with the putback | The Blur all the way

It was over when...
Amir Johnson went on a tear in the third quarter, where he scored all 8 of his points and made all 4 of his shots from the field in a span of 3 minutes. All of Johnson's scoring opportunities came from alley-oop dunks on the fastbreak, with Jerryd Bayless throwing picture perfect passes to him. With just under 2 minutes to play in the third, Whiteside was subbed in for Johnson and the Raptors were already leading 70-53.

In the fourth, Andrea Bargnani caught fire and scored 11 of his 20 points to extend the lead to over 20 points. The offensive production provided by the Raptors' frontcourt of Johnson and Bargnani in the second half was too much to handle for the Kings, as they eventually surrendered, 102-79.

The Game Changer(s)...
Caron Butler was back again to the injured list, after suffering a lower back strain in the third quarter. Butler was cleared to play earlier in the game from a bum ankle that had bothered him for weeks. Butler's injury only shortened Toronto's already thin bench, missing Wes Johnson (sprained ankle), DeMar DeRozan (broken ankle), and Linas Kleiza (knee surgery).

Fortunately, Amir Johnson got hot out of halftime. Johnson was the star of that decisive third quarter, exposing a mismatch against DeMarcus Cousins in transition to the tune of 8 points (all in 3rd) on 4-4 shooting. Johnson, who always seemed to lead the break, was quick to credit his teammates and coach for recognizing his advantage. "Coach called a couple of plays for me in transition and I was able to knock some shots down, get a lead and we played well from there," said Johnson.

The Underrated Raptor...
Andrea Bargnani continues to be a huge asset for this team in terms of his production off the bench, his near constant focus on offense and his tremendous efficiency. A 20 point performance off the bench on Sunday increases his scoring average for this season to 9.9 per game. That may not be an impressive number, but he acquitted himself as the Underrated Raptor nicely by showing a willingness to mix it up down low, defending hard and displaying his range all in just 20 minutes of work, including an impressive crossover move past Kings center DeMarcus Cousins for a layup.

That's A Rap...
"We told the guys before, if we can set the tone ... we have to play the game. If we go out and lose by 50, I don't know if we believe what we've been saying in training camp. So to play like we did, its ok. But guess what? Teams are going to react to us now a little bit and we better be ready to pick it up every single time we step on the floor." - Point Guard Jerryd Bayless, on the significance of a solid start 

Injury Update
Caron Butler - Lower Back Strain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 6-8 weeks

SCORES
Toronto 102 - Bargnani 20, Barbosa 19, Bayless 18, C. Butler 12, Davis 11, A. Johnson 8, R. Butler 8, Whiteside 4, Wilcox 2

Sacramento 79 - Garcia 16, Cousins 13, Hickson 12, Calderon 10, Fredette 9, Evans 9, Thornton 8, D. Jackson 2

By quarter: 24-24, 21-20, 29-17, 28-18

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
Bargnani: 20 pts/1 blk
Barbosa: 19 pts/6 reb/3 ast/8-15 FG
Bayless: 18 pts/5 reb/8 ast/2 stl

Sacramento
Garcia: 16 pts/6-9 FG/2-3 3PT
Cousins: 13 pts/6 reb/5-10 FG
Hickson: 12 pts/8 reb/1 blk

RECORD: 7-13
NEXT GAME: @ Lakers

Related Articles
Oden finally healthy, will play for Blazers this season (Dec 11)
DJ Augustin wants contract extension with Bobcats (Dec 10)
Stevenson happy to be in Dallas, wants new contract (Dec 10)
Kings, Hickson agree to 6yr/$41M deal

Raptors stun Lakers in Staples Center
Dec 13, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Wes catches fire early on | Wes with another 3 | Barbosa pulls the chair on Kobe, Butler for the jam | Putback out of nowhere

It was over when...
Wes Johnson connected on 2 three pointers to start the game, as the Raptors jumped to an early lead in the first quarter and did not look back. Johnson, who played his first game back since a sprained ankle sidelined him a week ago, look like he did not miss a beat. He made 8 for 12 shots in the first three quarters, a blistering 75% from the field and the Lakers had nobody else to stop him.

It also helps when you game plan a bit. The Raptors took the ball out of Pau Gasol's hands for most of the game, and Gasol was only limited to 7 shots in the game. Ed Davis, the man guarding Gasol, was credited by coach Dwane Casey for his defensive work. "He was being agressive on D and at the same time, knowing how defense is supposed to be played, where he needs to be, the defensive sets we want to run. It's coming together bit by bit."

The Game Changer(s)...
Wes Johnson's all around game was on full display tonight. Johnson finished with an impressive stat line of 24 points to go with 8 rebounds, 5 assist, 3 steals and a block. It was a monster afternoon for the second year forward, and he picked the best time to play, right in front of the LA crowd. Clearly looking to be more aggressive with his shot, Johnson splashed a pair of threes in the first half, but mixed things up after the break. He drove right at the rim for a pair of energizing dunks in the third quarter, where the Raptors led by 10. A great sign for Johnson, who came up big on a night where they were missing production from the wing position.

The Underrated Raptor...
Caron Butler, who was playing with a strained back, had another efficient offensive game on Tuesday, finishing with 18 points (8-13 FGM-A) in 25 minutes off the bench. The Raptors swingman also hit a shot from downtown, scooped up six rebounds and brought his usual brand of tough defence down the stretch. All part of another solid bench effort for Toronto.

That's A Rap...
"Without DeMar (DeRozan) we just needed to step up. When he comes back we’re going to be much stronger. His presence will be great throughout the game on both ends of the court. We hope that he comes back soon and put this team in a better situation." - Wes Johnson, on playing without DeMar DeRozan 

Injury Update
Caron Butler - Twisted Ankle, Day-to-day
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 6-8 weeks

SCORES
Toronto 94 - W. Johnson 24, C. Butler 18, Bayless 13, Bargnani 10, Davis 9, R. Butler 8, Barbosa 6, A. Johnson 6

Los Angeles 78 - Bryant 27, Fisher 17, Bynum 8, Gasol 8, Goudelock 6, Odom 4, K. Thomas 4, World Peace 4

By quarter: 22-21, 18-16, 26-19, 28-22

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
Bayless: 13 pts/4 reb/6 ast
W. Johnson: 24 pts/8 reb/5 ast/3 stl/1 blk
Butler: 18 pts/6 reb/8-13 FG

Los Angeles
Bryant: 27 pts/6 ast/3 stl
Fisher: 17 pts/5 reb
Bynum: 8 pts/2 blk/4-6 FG

RECORD: 8-13
NEXT GAME: @ Blazers

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Jamal Crawford's jumper helps Blazers outlast Raptors in OT
Dec 10, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Bayless quick 3 | Bayless double clutches to the bucket | Amir pulls the chair | Wes with the denial to stop the fastbreak | Bayless gets hot from downtown | Clutch 3 by Wes from Scarborough | Butler ties the game up | The Butler almost did it

It was over when...
Down by 5 with a couple of minutes left in regulation, Wes Johnson hit a long three pointer and followed it with a dunk on the break to knot the game up at 88. Raymond Felton answered on the other end with a long two, but the Raptors weren't going down that easily. Caron Butler knocked down a short jumper on the final possession of the fourth quarter to force OT.

The game was as close in overtime as it was in the first 4 quarters. Neither team jumped to a significant lead. After Jamal Crawford drained a 12-footer to put the Blazers up 98-96, he had another chance to seal the game when the Raptors failed to convert on their next possession. His attempt went in and out and the Raptors had one last chance, with 1.5 seconds remaining, to send it to a second overtime or win the game with a three pointer.

Dwane Casey drew up a play to free Jerryd Bayless for a corner triple, unfortunately, the Blazers' F Nicolas Batum was quick to recognize it, and Toronto was forced to inbound it to Caron Butler, who stepped back to the three point line to free himself and made a three, but didn't get it off in time.

The Game Changer(s)...
With LaMarcus Aldridge out of the lineup, Jamal Crawford stepped up offensively for the Blazers. He scored 22 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished out 8 assists. He also was efficient from the field, shooting 10 for 19 -- over 50%.

The former Sixth Man of the Year seems to have found a new home in Oregon. His game changing offense and ball distribution to stable scorers has helped Portland to their 10th win of the season.

The Underrated Raptor...
Another impressive performance from Ed Davis, who had an efficient, focused and complete game in the win. Bargnani was locked in early (huge given the Raps' first-quarter struggles) and hit 3 of his first four shots for 6 first-quarter points.

He went on to hit 7-for-16 overall from the floor for 19 points with 9 rebounds and 3 assists. The best part? Six of those 7 makes were less than 5 feet from the basket with only one jumper attempted and made. He's doing an excellent job of recognizing what aspects of his skill set to use (drive, jumper, post up), given the matchup.

That's A Rap...
"I think in transition we just have five guys on the break and sometimes it just gets too congested. We have five guys running the floor and everybody gets excited trying to run; it gets crowded and we end up turning it over and they throw it the other way because there is a guy behind the play at the other end. The energy level is good, we’re trying to make something happen, sometimes we end up turning it over and it goes right back." - Dwane Casey, on the early turnovers. The Raptors committed 10 turnovers as a team. 

Injury Update
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 6-8 weeks

SCORES
Toronto 96 - W. Johnson 31, Bayless 22, Davis 19, Bargnani 8, R. Butler 8, C. Butler 7, Barbosa 1

Portland 98 - Crawford 22, Matthews 18, Batum 18, Felton 18, Wallace 12, Oden 8, Ngombo 2

By quarter: 25-21, 24-27, 17-20, 24-22, OT 6-8

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 31 pts/4 reb/2 stl/2 blk/13-22 FG
Bayless: 22 pts/3 reb/7 ast/9-13 FG/2-4 3PT
Davis: 19 pts/9 reb/3 ast/7-16 FG

Portland
Crawford: 22 pts/5 reb/8 ast/10-19 FG
Matthews: 18 pts/3 stl/7-9 FG/2-2 3PT
Wallace: 12 pts/9 reb/2 stl/1 blk

RECORD: 8-14
NEXT GAME: v Bobcats

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Rumor: Rockets to trade Jordan Hill? (Dec 16)
Charlie V reportedly asks Pistons for trade (Dec 15)

Lakers trade disgruntled Odom for Raptors big man Bargnani
Dec 15, 2011

The Los Angeles Lakers are set to acquire a coveted quality big man to backup Pau Gasol in a multiplayer trade agreement with the Toronto Raptors. The Lakers agreed in principle Thursday to acquire forward-center Andrea Bargnani plus an unprotected 2012 2nd round pick from the Raptors for forwards Lamar Odom and Luke Walton.

Because the Lakers are already over the hard cap and Bargnani's salary exceeds Odom's by $100K, the Raptors will use part of the Chris Bosh Traded Player Exception acquired from Miami (which before the trade stood at $9M) and the restrictions surrounding it. The deal will be constructed as two separate deals, with Walton being exchanged for part of the TPE and Odom going to Raptors for Bargnani and the 2nd rounder.

Both teams are going in opposite directions this season and Toronto addressed a major need by acquiring a veteran, experienced big man and the Lakers addressed a need by acquiring a capable backup 4 who can also double as a center.

The hot Lakers (17-5) acquire a solid veteran to back up Gasol in Bargnani. The former #1 pick has averaged 10.5 points and 3.8 rebounds while playing off the bench in all 20 games for Toronto this season. The Lakers have wanted to trade Odom, who was reportedly frustrated by the direction the team was heading, and being included to two vetoed trades last month: one of which would have sent him to the Hornets in a three team deal for Chris Paul, the other to the Mavericks.

Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak praised Odom for his time in L.A. "Lamar was a fine player for us in his seven years with the Lakers and was a key to helping us win two championships," Kupchak said. "In addition, he always conducted himself with class and professionalism and we wish him well in the remainder of his career."

Since the Raptors will use their TPE to absorb Luke Walton's contract ($5.68M), this will put the Lakers under the hard cap.

Analysis:
LA - The Lakers managed to squeeze some value from the disgruntled Odom and his expiring by acquiring a decent scorer in Bargnani, who can play off the bench or start right away. Bargnani's defensive weaknesses, although well-documented, can be easily hidden by the Lakers' frontcourt (Bynum, Gasol, Barnes and Artest, all of which are above average defenders to say the least). They also found a team to dump Luke Walton's contract, which means they are now under the hard cap. The Lakers become a reinvigorated team this season and this move just makes them stronger. The additional 2nd rounder will only help as next year's draft class is deep according to most scouts.

TOR - The Toronto Raptors have finally acquired a tough, veteran presence they have been lacking for quite some time. Odom provides some toughness and his all around game makes him a perfect fit to the Raps (or any team in particular) and he can contribute right away. A hard-nosed player like Odom could be important for Toronto to help change the team's culture as a more defensive-minded one.

Winner - It's a win for both teams. As mentioned above both teams filled dire needs and got rid of some unwanted pieces, not to mention getting under the luxury tax for the Lakers. Both had to give up someone they probably did not really want to in Odom and Bargnani, but both teams will walk away feeling satisfied with this deal.

Now if I am a LA fan I am pretty upset as I would feel the Lakers could have got more for an expiring contract, even though Bargnani (26 years old) has probably has a brighter future than Lamar Odom (32 years old).

If I am a Raptor fan (and I am) I am rejoicing as the Raptors have finally acquired a veteran who can contribute in many places and be a mentor to the younger guys. I would also be happy that we acquire asset in Walton that we can use as the trade deadline approaches to further improve our team for the future. So in closing, this was a win-win for both of the franchises, I'm just not sure the die-hard fans in LA will feel the same. (Read more)

Bobcats spoil Lamar Odom's Raptor debut
Dec 16, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Wes with the block after losing the ball | Strong layup all the way to the hole by Wes | Odom with the 3 on the second chance | Clutch 3 on the break to cap off run

It was over when...
Trailing by 11 midway through the fourth, the Raptors rallied to make it 76-73. Bismack Biyombo was fouled on the next Bobcats possession and surprisingly hit both two of his freebies to extend the margin to 5.

Wes Johnson tried to make it a two point game, but his three point attempt rimmed in and out as DJ Augustin grabbed the board and sealed the game with another two free throws.

The Game Changer(s)...
With his hustle on the defensive end, Bismack Biyombo was a game changer for Charlotte. The rookie from Congo grabbed 11 rebounds (5 offensive) and created plenty of second chances for his team. He also saved some of this chances for himself, scoring 8 points.

The Underrated Raptor...
In his first game in a Raptor uniform, Lamar Odom was solid if unspectacular. He struggled with his shot throughout the game, but stepped it up towards the end. He was a key part in the Raptors' late rally as he scored 8 of the Raptors' last 13 points: hitting a couple of three pointers (one of them on the break) and converting a layup.

That's A Rap...
"Coach is putting me in the right positions. He is running plays for me late in the game and putting trust in me to get to the free throw line and that is what I'm trying to do." - Wes Johnson, on taking shots late in the game 

Injury Update
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 6-8 weeks

SCORES
Charlotte 80 - T. Thomas 20, Maggette 18, Augustin 11, Carroll 9, Biyombo 8, Walker 6, Diaw 4, Cunningham 2, Pryzbilla 2

Toronto 73 - Odom 17, Bayless 15, W. Johnson 14, Davis 10, C. Butler 7, R. Butler 5, Barbosa 3, A. Johnson 2

By quarter: 21-14, 18-15, 20-25, 21-19

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 14pts/1 blk/6-8 FG
Bayless: 15 pts/8 ast/2 stl
Davis: 10 pts/8 reb/4 blk/5-7 FG

Charlotte
T. Thomas: 20 pts/15 reb/2 blk
Maggette: 18 pts/9 reb/6-9 FT
Biyombo: 8 pts/11 reb/1 blk

RECORD: 8-15
NEXT GAME: v Bobcats

Related Articles
Jordan Hill looking to play elsewhere (Dec 17)
Odom to Raptors for Bargnani (Dec 15)

[john26]

Chapter 4: Persona Non Grata

phpBB [video]

Raptors team executives and Primo Foods CEO talking on the phone

"So why can't we send Bargnani to Denver again? Or any other team not LA or Brooklyn?" Colangelo asked irritatingly.

The man on the other line was getting sick and tired of the conversation. "Look, we've been over this...simply put, Primo Pasta Sauce has two franchise endorsers: Andrea Bargnani and Danilo Gallinari. Since Gallo signed an extension this season, we're working on a lifetime Primo pasta sauce supply for him now."

"And so?" Colangelo, still clueless, kept throwing one question after another.

"Primo pasta sauce simply cannot have its two signature players on the same team in the same market. … Gallo is the face of Denver market, owns that market, and Primo can’t possibly have maximum bang for its buck with Bargnani there. It serves Primo Pasta Sauce no purpose. They need them as rivals in competing markets."

Colangelo looked more confused than ever, and answered with, "Ohhhhhh....I still don't get it."

"We'll still pay Bargnani wherever he winds up. He just won't be paid as much as if he were in LA or Brooklyn, or marketed the same way as Gallo...Also, if he gets traded to Denver, then something bad will happen and it may involve saying HELLO TO MY LITTLE FRIEND!" The CEO of Primo Foods then went to slam the phone while Colangelo ordered his assistant GM, Jonathan Harring, to convince the Lakers to swap Bargnani for Odom.

In the Lakers' conference room, Mitch Kupchak gathered Lamar Odom, his agent and had the Raptors' assistant GM Jonathan Harring fly all the way from the arctic outpost that is Toronto to give a presentation...

Kupchak tried to kick things off, "Let's get started...Jonathan, impress us."

Harring then went to retrieve a ream of paper from his bag. "Ok...uhhh...what is this? A draft for a screenplay of a TV show? Hmmm I wonder what its called? Lemme look at the front page." He read the words: "Khloe and Lamar Take on Toronto...promising isn't it?" Odom's eyes grew bigger in astonishment. Harring read the first few pages and gave his own impromptu, quick review of the screenplay. "Got a nice little story we've been working on here? Huh? Got a, got a compelling protagonist? Yeah? Got a obstacle for him to overcome? Huh?" He kept flipping and flipping to get a better idea of the draft. "Got a story brewing here? Nice little narrative? Beginning, middle, and end? Some friends become enemies, some enemies become friends? At the end the main character is richer from the experience? Yeah? Yeah?"

Odom, now looking all jacked up like Glen Davis when he got traded to the Magic, asked, "Where do I sign up?"




Odom took the first flight to Toronto as soon as he signed. He went to make a phone call to his wife telling her about their new show. As soon as he set foot in Canada, he was like a broken record. He kept asking the question, "When do we start taping?" When he first met with his new GM Bryan Colangelo, his first words were, "Where is everybody? How are we gonna start taping when nobody's here yet?"

Colangelo sat down with Odom and the harsh reality kicked in. He told him that they were no longer doing the show, because of calls made by some people after a poll was done on a morning radio show asking: "If the Kardashians were to shoot a spin off reality show in Canada, would you watch it?" Some of the reactions were that the Kardashians have as much personality as a toothpick, that they would rather watch grass grow on the lawn or the paint dry or clouds to form than watch the Kardashians. Others mentioned that they would rather be awakened by a well aimed two by four across the head and dumped to a curb than sit through an episode, or make a paper airplane out of the $200 spent on monthly cable fees to access E! and toss it right into the toilet.

After learning of the fate of his show, Lamar Odom turned into a jackass off the court, all in a day before he was to make his debut. While eating a coleslaw at a foodcourt in the local mall, Odom was approached by a father and his son, both of which were wearing matching swingman Raptor jerseys. "Hey son, look it's Lamar. Get him to sign your stu---"

"I'm on my fucking lunch break, OK?" Odom yelled at the kid, with lettuce shooting out of his mouth.

Hours later, the Raptors were set to go up against the Bobcats. During the game introductions, Nelly Furtado sang O Canada, much to the dismay of Odom. It wasn't because Nelly Furtado was singing, but because O Canada was sang before The Star Spangled Banner. And so, while standing in front of his team's bench with his teammates beside him and Furtado singing, Odom turned around to the fans behind him and did his best Josh Howard impression: "O Canada O Canada is going on right now...I don't even celebrate that shit. I'm black, goddamn it..."

Midway through the game, while Odom was taking a free throw, a man wearing a Santa suit in the opposite row stood up to say, "Yeah Lamar, I would have never guessed you'd end up in a Raptors jersey..."

Lamar shot the first free throw and then shot back to the man saying, "No you're mistaken. I'm an accountant and I'm wearing this thing as a fashion statement."

[kibaxx7]

Hilarious But, to me at least, Odom could play in any team and do a good job.

[Lamrock]

I'm not gonna lie. It's sad seeing Bargnani go, but I love where you're going with Lamar. Should be an entertaining December.

[john26]

Hilarious But, to me at least, Odom could play in any team and do a good job.

Yeah agree, he's one of the players in the league that doesn't play for the Raps that I like to watch

I'm not gonna lie. It's sad seeing Bargnani go, but I love where you're going with Lamar. Should be an entertaining December.

I know what you mean, with Bargs is playing really well irl...I wasn't a fan of bargs before this season but now he's showing that he can be a solid player on both ends under the right system.

[john26]

Man 2k's trade logic is pretty messed up. Getting picks is too easy.

[john26]

Late turnover costs Hornets the game in Toronto
Dec 18, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Odom beats the buzzer at the half | Caron on a pullup | Bailed out by Wes | Clutch putback by Ed

It was over when...
Trailing by just a point after clawing back in the fourth with just under half of the quarter to play and without their star player Eric Gordon, Sonny Weems (former Raptor traded to Hornets for a 2nd rounder) put his team up by one with a jumper. Eric Bledsoe followed with a 3-pointer as the Hornets were on top 82-80 in the last two minutes of the game, which prompted Dwane Casey to call timeout and have his guys regroup.

Whatever he said in the timeout sure worked as the Raptors finished the game on a 11-4 run to win 91-86. Wes Johnson hit a tricky layup off the timeout, and after a miss by Eric Bledsoe (who was sent to Hornets in the Paul deal instead of Aminu), Ed Davis converted a three point play, a putback on a miss by Lamar Odom plus the foul shot. The Hornets had one more chance to tie it, but Eric Bledsoe threw the ball away with 20.9 seconds remaining.

The Game Changer(s)...
Even though he wasn't mentioned in the last few minutes of the game, Jerryd Bayless deserves a lot of credit for keeping the Raptors in this game throughout. Bayless finished the game with 18 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists - just missing out on a triple double - and if it wasn't for him, the Hornets would've probably taken the W. This is the second time this month that he nearly finished the game - earlier he had a 24 point, 8 rebound, 13 assist performance against the Thunder at home. His numbers this month have been impressive and it may be time to anoint him the title of "point guard of the future".

The Underrated Raptor...
The stats don't look that amazing - 13 points and 2 rebounds - but Ed Davis was big down the stretch for the Raptors. His offensive board leading to the putback layup was the game winning shot of the night. Davis was also active down low, sending 3 Hornets shots back and showcasing his defensive repertoire.

That's A Rap...
"I am just glad to see some carry over. I thought we did some great things in the Los Angeles (Lakers) game and then to come in here tonight against a tough New Orleans team. I thought guys followed the game plan and everyone was active." - Caron Butler, on the defensive effort in the last few games 

Injury Update
Caron Butler - Lower Back Strain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 6-8 weeks

SCORES
New Orleans 86 - Kaman 18, Weems 18, Ariza 14, Yi 11, Bledsoe 8, Belinelli 5, J. Smith 4, Jack 4, Andersen 2, Pondexter 2

Toronto 91 - Bayless 18, Odom 16, Davis 13, C. Butler 13, Barbosa 12, W. Johnson 9, A. Johnson 8, Whiteside 2

By quarter: 17-16, 23-25, 17-27, 29-23

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
Bayless: 18 pts/8 reb/8 ast
Davis: 13 pts/2 reb/3 blk/6-10 FG
C. Butler: 13 pts/7 reb/6-9 FG/1-1 3PT

New Orleans
Kaman: 18 pts/8 reb/4 blk
Weems: 18 pts/5 reb/5 ast
Bledsoe: 8 pts/5 reb/8 ast

RECORD: 9-15
NEXT GAME: v Pistons

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Odom comes up big in Raptors home victory over Pistons
Dec 21, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Long ball from Caron | Butler flies from the wing, the old Miami connection | Barbosa feeds Wes on the break | Lamar takes Jerebko to dancing lesson | Caron with the putback on the Davis misfire

It was over when...
It wasn't over at this particular point, but Lamar Odom really seemed to spark the Raptors at the start of the second half. He came out of the break with a couple of three pointers and scored 12 of his game high 24 points in the third quarter.

More importantly, Odom's teammates rallied behind his play, outscoring the Pistons 56-43 the rest of the way and putting them in a position to pull away with a late big run in the fourth.

The Game Changer(s)...
Odom's finest game as a Raptor was a winning effort, and last night he looked like a man on a mission at Air Canada Centre on Wednesday with an all-around terrific game. Odom had 18 points in the second half and he was a big contributor late. He also went 6-6 in the charity stripe and added two three pointers, all in the second half making him the best player on the floor of the night.

The Underrated Raptor...
Caron Butler, now free of the lingering effects of the lower back strain he suffered in Sacramento about a week and a half ago, was also another big factor in the game for the Raptors. When the Raptors were struggling to find offense early in the game, he carried them on his back and had 9 of Toronto's 16 first quarter points. He was also big down the stretch, with 6 points at the start of the final frame including a nasty putback jam on a miss by Ed Davis to help his team put away the visitors for good.

With DeMar DeRozan out with an ankle injury, Butler has provided some steady minutes as the starting shooting guard, and today, he showed how effective he can be. He was a key figure in neutralizing the effectiveness of Rodney Stuckey. Butler used his size and strength to overmatch the Pistons guard, who shot an uncharacteristic 1-8 from the field.

That's A Rap...
"Before, I don’t think we were really aggressive. We weren’t aggressive in our coverages, we weren’t aggressive in getting back, we weren’t aggressive in talking and rebounding and they put some points on the board. Once we started putting effort into it, we played good defense and we got stops.” - Lamar Odom, on being more aggressive on the court 

Injury Update
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), 1-2 weeks
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 2-4 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 6-8 weeks

SCORES
Detroit 86 - Gordon 22, Prince 18, Knight 9, Wallace 9, Villanueva 7, Stuckey 7, Bogans 6, Singler 6, Macklin 2

Toronto 94 - Odom 24, C. Butler 23, W. Johnson 12, Davis 11, Bayless 9, Barbosa 8, R. Butler 5, A. Johnson 2

By quarter: 19-16, 24-22, 20-26, 23-30

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
Odom: 24 pts/4 reb/3 ast/1 stl/2 blk
Bayless: 9 pts/9 reb/5 ast
C. Butler: 23 pts/4 ast/2 stl/9-16 FG/3-4 3PT

Detroit
Gordon: 22 pts/5 ast/2-2 3PT
Prince: 18 pts/9 reb/5 ast/9-15 FG
Wallace: 9 pts/9 reb/1 blk

RECORD: 10-15
NEXT GAME: v Grizzlies

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Raptors Bring Effort, Intensity In Blowout Win Over Grizzlies
Dec 23, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Wes gets back on D | Butler to Wes for the oop | Inhumane putback | Defense leads to offense | Long 3 at the end of the clock

It was over when...
Wes Johnson exploded for 16 points in the third quarter as the Raptors dispatched the Grizzlies easily at home. With his team trailing 52-48, Johnson started a 19-0 run to put the Raptors on top by 15. He scored on a one-handed putback dunk from a miss by Caron Butler, and drove the lane on the next Raptors possesion to find a streaking Caron for an easy lay-in.

OJ Mayo hit a long 2 from the corner to stop the bleeding, but the Grizzlies simply lacked the intensity the Raptors brought in the second half and failed to make a comeback.

The Game Changer(s)...
It was not a tough choice as Wes Johnson played an excellent game on both sides of the floor. He finished with 21 points and 6 boards, and also blocked 4 shots (2 which were on the break).

"Coach just told me to get back on defense everytime and don't mind complaining to the officials about every play," said Johnson, whose 4 blocks were a career high and contributed to the Raptors' season high 11 blocks.

The Underrated Raptor...
Jerryd Bayless once again contributed in different ways to help the Raptors win. The young guard cored 16 points, but also added 5 rebounds and did a solid job distributing the ball with 7 assists. He also shot a high clip from distance, making all 3 shots from downtown.

That's A Rap...
"We know we can be a great defensive team, not just good, because we have the right players on this team. We just gotta keep focused on that side of the floor every time." - Dwane Casey, on holding the Grizzlies to 73 points. 

Injury Update
Leandro Barbosa - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), Day-to-day
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 1-2 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 4-6 weeks

SCORES
Memphis 73 - Randolph 23, Gay 17, Conley 10, Mayo 7, I. Smith 6, Allen 4, Young 3, Arthur 2, Gasol 1

Toronto 98 - W. Johnson 21, Davis 16, C. Butler 16, Bayless 16, Barbosa 14, Odom 7, A. Johnson 3, R. Butler 3, Whiteside 2

By quarter: 25-21, 24-27, 17-20, 24-22, OT 6-8

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 21 pts/6 reb/3 ast/3 stl/4 blk/2-4 3PT
Bayless: 16 pts/5 reb/7 ast/5-9 FG/3-3 3PT
Odom: 7 pts/7 reb/2 blk/3-13 FG

Memphis
Randolph: 23 pts/7 reb/10-18
Gay: 17 pts/4 reb/3 ast
Conley: 10 pts/5 reb/6 ast

RECORD: 11-15
NEXT GAME: @ Cavaliers

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[john26]

Irving wills Cavs to close win over Raptors
Dec 26, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Bail out by Lamar | Triple on the pullup | Wes with the dunk after Ed blocks TT

It was over when...
The Raptors led 85-82 when Wes Johnson ran the break for a wide open fastbreak dunk with 59.7 seconds remaining in the game clock. But for Cavs rookie Kyrie Irving, it wasn't over. After Antwan Jamison converted a layup on the other end, the Cavs forced a couple of defensive stops and Irving was simply unstoppable in the last half-minute of the game.

Irving drove to the basket for a layup that put the Cavaliers up by a point. On the next possession, he hit a couple of clutch free throws that stretched the lead to 3, leaving just 6.5 seconds in the clock. The Raptors got the ball in the hands of Wes Johnson for a 3 to send it to OT, but he couldn't find rim.

The Game Changer(s)...
The top pick of this year's draft put on a brilliant show last night. Kyrie Irving had 19 points for the Cavaliers as they improved to a 12-13 record.

Coach Byron Scott is wasting no time putting Kyrie Irving in pressure situations, and Irving delivered. "I've got to get this young man (Irving) used to closing out games and I have to find out what he has, what he's made of when the games are on the line in situations like that."

The Underrated Raptor...
Caron Butler was the lone bright spot in the latest of the Raptors' disappointing losses this season. Butler was aggressive throughout, and scored 8 of his 24 points from the charity stripe (he made all attempts) while also doing work on the boards (6 rebounds).

That's A Rap...
"He's going to be an all-star soon. He can do everything - get to the line, good jumper, can play D - what more can you ask for? He's the complete package." - Dwane Casey on the future of Kyrie Irving 

Injury Update
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Out), 1-2 weeks
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 4-6 weeks

SCORES
Toronto 85 - C. Butler 24, Odom 20, W. Johnson 18, Barbosa 10, Davis 8, Bayless 5

Cleveland 88 - B. Davis 24, Irving 19, Jamison 13, Varejao 9, Thompson 8, Samuels 4, Eyenga 4, Session 3, Parker 2, Gee 2

By quarter: 22-22, 22-19, 27-20, 14-27

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 18 pts/6 reb/3 ast
Davis: 8 pts/3 reb/3 blk
C. Butler: 24 pts/6 reb/8-8 FT

Cleveland
Irving: 19 pts/2 ast/7-8 FT
Jamison: 13 pts/7 reb/6-8 FG
Varejao: 9 pts/5 reb/3-3 FG

RECORD: 11-16
NEXT GAME: v Pacers

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Dec 28, 2011 • Pacers 110, Raptors 116
PACERS HI POINTS: Collison 23 | REBOUNDS: West 11 | ASSISTS: Collison 10
RAPTORS HI POINTS: Odom 21 | REBOUNDS: Davis 15 | ASSISTS: Bayless 7

Pacers bow to Raptors in OT in this high scoring affair north of the border. Lamar Odom led his team with 21 points while Ed Davis added 20 points, 15 rebounds.

RECORD: 12-16
NEXT GAME: @ Mavericks

Bayless scores season high 29 points in win over defending champs
Dec 30, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Hot potato on the break | Jerryd up top to Ed | Wes on D, Caron on O | One handed flush by Wes

It was over when...
With the game knotted at 84, Jerryd Bayless drove to the basket for a layup to put his team up by 2. Jason Terry attempted to tie it at 86 on the other end, but his missed jumper setup Jerryd Bayless for a 3 that gave the Raptors a comfortable 89-84 lead which was more than enough to take the victory.

The Game Changer(s)...
Bayless' 5 point spurt changed the outcome of the game, but his play throughout was crucial as well. The youngster out of Arizona notched a season high 29 points, including a respectable 2 for 5 from downtown, and found his teammates on 6 opportunities. In the third quarter, where Toronto grabbed an 8 point advantage, the Raptors deferred to Bayless on end of clock situations and he responded by hitting a couple of those type of shots.

The Underrated Raptor...
Wes Johnson continues his underrated play on the team. Although not leading the team in scoring (18 points) he was filling up the stat sheet pretty well. He grabbed 8 rebounds (just a couple shy of a double double), dished out 3 assists, and also filled up the steals and blocks category with 2 of each.

Johnson's all around game is important for the Raptors, who are missing top scorer DeMar DeRozan, as they go on the new year.

That's A Rap...
"I just needed to see it go in a couple times in a row. It feels good for it to drop. I just have to keep it going.” - Wes Johnson, on being more of a scorer on the team 

Injury Update
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), Day-to-Day
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 2-4 weeks

SCORES
Toronto 95 - Bayless 29, W. Johnson 18, Odom 16, Davis 10, Barbosa 9, C. Butler 9, A. Johnson 4

Dallas 88 - Carter 17, Kidd 15, Nowitzki 14, Marion 13, Terry 11, C. Brewer 7, Haywood 5, Telfair 4, Douglas-Roberts 2

By quarter: 18-21, 24-17, 28-24, 25-26

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
Odom: 16 pts/9 reb/4 ast
Bayless: 29 pts/6 ast/2 stl/12-16 FG
W. Johnson: 18 pts/8 reb/2 stl/2 blk/4-6 3PT

Dallas
Carter: 17 pts/6-11 FG
Kidd: 15 pts/6 reb/6 ast/7-11 FG
Marion: 13 pts/12 reb/1 stl/1 blk/6-11 FG

RECORD: 13-16
NEXT GAME: @ Spurs

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Odom explodes for career high 45 as Raps rout Spurs in OT
Dec 31, 2011

Recap | Team Stats
HIGHLIGHTS: Wes with the facial on Parker and Manu | Barbosa all the way to the bucket | Spots up on the break | Davis cleaning up the glass | Bayless forces OT | Lamar takes over

It was over when...
The Spurs were on the driver's seat with less than 40 seconds remaining thanks to a basket by Manu Ginobili, but they left enough time for the Raptors to send it to overtime. Lamar Odom failed to cash in on a 3 point attempt at the end of the shot clock in the next possession that would have tied the game, but luckily for the Raptors, Caron Butler was there to grab the offensive board. Butler knew the shot wasn't going for him (2-8 FG), and so found a wide open Jerryd Bayless at the top of the key who drained the triple to tie at 95 with 15 seconds to play.

Ginobili's 3 at the end of regulation was short as both teams went to overtime. Lamar Odom opened the overtime period with 8 consecutive points as the Raptors jumped to 103-98 lead and never trailed.

The Game Changer(s)...
Hard to ignore Lamar Odom on this one, he was simply phenomenal. Shooting a spectacular 18-for-26 from the field and going 4-for-5 from beyond the arc, Odom's performance was one for the ages. A historic Raptor moment (one of the highest scoring games of a Raptor in a regular season game), he bounced back from the misfire he committed earlier at the end of the 4th quarter, to score all 16 of the Raptors' OT points, and on his way to a career night.

The Underrated Raptor...
I guess it would be a tie between Leandro Barbosa and Ed Davis. Barbosa provided solid play off the bench for the Raptors. The former Sixth Man of the Year had 10 points and 5 assists, and all his makes were in the immediate basket area. The Blur displayed his outstanding speed, underrated court vision and along with Jerryd Bayless, held Spurs guard Tony Parker to 2-for-11 shooting to help his team to the victory.

Ed Davis, meanwhile, was a monster on the boards, grabbing 14 of them in the game. He also scored 8 points mainly on putbacks and easy fastbreak opportunities, showing his high shooting percentage. And the 2 blocks - gravy.

That's A Rap...
"Luck. Opportunity, I mean a lot of things. My teammates made the game real easy for me tonight. Wes (Johnson) does what he does. Jerryd (Bayless) does what he does, penetrate and kick. Find me for a lot of open shots. All I do really is knock down the open shot and play defense. And when I got in the groove, they trusted me more and more on offense so I made more shots." - Lamar Odom said of his performance 

Injury Update
Wesley Johnson - Severe Ankle Sprain (Hurt), Day-to-Day
DeMar DeRozan - Broken Ankle (Out), 2-4 weeks

SCORES
Toronto 111 - Odom 45, W. Johnson 20, Barbosa 10, C. Butler 10, Davis 8, Bayless 8, R. Butler 6, A. Johnson 4

San Antonio 108 - Ginobili 35, Jefferson 20, Duncan 16, Bertans 13, Blair 10, Parker 5, Neal 3, McDyess 2, J. Anderson 2, Ford 2

By quarter: 28-31, 21-18, 27-26, 19-20, OT 16-13

TOP PERFORMERS

Toronto
W. Johnson: 20 pts/4 reb/1 blk/7-11 FG/3-3 3PT
Davis: 8 pts/14 reb/2 blk
Odom: 45 pts/5 reb/18-26 FG/4-5 3PT/5-8 FT

San Antonio
Ginobili: 35 pts/12 reb/2 blk
R. Jefferson: 20 pts/5 reb/7-8 FG
Duncan: 16 pts/8 reb/1 blk

RECORD: 14-16
NEXT GAME: @ Knicks

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