Game Preview
The Toronto Raptors (7-20) and Brooklyn Nets (10-16) clash on Thursday with both teams looking to snap out of recent slumps. The Raptors have struggled mightily, dropping five straight and 15 of their last 20 games. Their offense has sputtered, averaging just 117.5 points over the last 20 contests while allowing 114.4 points per game. However, they've shown signs of life recently, scoring nearly 140 points per game over their last five while grabbing almost 60 rebounds.
The Nets, meanwhile, have dropped three in a row and 6 of their last 10. Their offense has been inconsistent, hovering around 108 points per game over the last 10 games while shooting just a shade above 45% from the field. Brooklyn's three-point shooting has been a bright spot at 40.1% over this stretch, but they'll need to tighten up their defense after allowing 116.4 points per game.
A key matchup to watch will be the battle on the glass. The Raptors have been crashing the boards hard, grabbing nearly 50 rebounds per game on the season. They'll look to control the paint against a Nets team averaging just 37 rebounds over their last 20 games. If Toronto can dominate the rebounding and get out in transition, they could snap their skid with an inspired home performance.
Both teams enter Thursday's matchup desperate to turn things around and gain some momentum. While the Nets have struggled lately, their ability to knock down outside shots could give them an edge if the Raptors' defense doesn't tighten up. Expect a gritty, high-scoring affair as these Atlantic Division foes fight to get back on track.