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The Toronto Raptors (7-24) have endured a nightmarish season thus far, currently mired in a 9-game losing streak and owning the second-worst record in the league. Their struggles have been evident on both ends, averaging just 117.5 points per game while allowing a whopping 118.5 points to opponents. The team's shooting percentages have hovered around 46% from the field and a shade above 34% from three-point range, numbers that simply won't cut it in today's high-powered NBA.
Recently, the Raptors' woes have only intensified, as they've been outscored by 11 points per game over their last 5 outings while failing to notch a single victory. Over this brutal stretch, their offensive output has dipped to 115.2 points per contest, and they've continued to struggle defensively, surrendering 126.2 points on average. Despite maintaining a respectable 46.8% field goal percentage, they've been ice-cold from deep, connecting on just 36% of their three-point attempts.
In contrast, the visiting Atlanta Hawks (16-15) have been a model of consistency, hovering around the .500 mark all season and currently riding a 2-game win streak. The Hawks have found success thanks to a balanced offensive attack that averages 117.7 points while allowing 119.5 points per game. While their shooting numbers aren't eye-popping (46.8% FG, 34.7% 3PT), they've excelled at getting to the free throw line and converting at a 79.3% clip.
Over their last 10 games, the Hawks have turned things up a notch, posting a 6-4 record while scoring nearly 120 points per outing. Their hot shooting from three-point range (34.5%) has been a catalyst, complemented by stellar defense that's held opponents under 120 points on average. This recent stretch has seen the Hawks grab nearly 50 rebounds per game while dishing out 30 assists, a testament to their unselfish, team-first mentality.
With the Raptors in complete disarray and the Hawks hitting their stride, this matchup has all the makings of a one-sided affair. Unless Toronto can find a way to slow down Atlanta's balanced attack while rediscovering their own offensive rhythm, the losing streak seems destined to continue.