Game Recap: Raptors 115, Knicks 92
Well, that was interesting.
With the comments about Primoz Brezec from various sources being quite discouraging, it was interesting to take a look at the big man in action. The verdict for at least one game, is that he’s a seven footer who plays with emotion and is willing to crash the glass on both sides of the floor. He’s also got some speed for a seven-footer and may very well be a great backup to Andrea Bargnani as his foot speed seems to be around the same level as the big Italian. Of course aside from a little foul trouble, it remains to be seen if he can continue this kind of energetic play.
The rest of the Raptors squad was a mixed blessing. On this particular night, hot shooting really helped the Raptors overcome some difficulties defensively, especially early in the second half. While many will point to the fact that the Raptors held the Knicks to under 39% shooting for the game, the fact of the matter is, a lot of poor decision making by Zach Randolph and loose foul calls allowed the Raptors some room to operate. Randolph continued to drive and put up wild shots, while the others watched.
Eddie Curry didn’t help the Knicks’ cause as he also continued to try and act like a SF or SG by trying to drive to the basket and take a pull up jumper, instead of finishing hard. Of particular importance though, was that Jamal Crawford was still basically unstoppable until Anthony Parker was switched on to him. It actually gave me great pleasure to watch Sam Mitchell lay into Jamario Moon for some horrible defense, as it affirmed a common belief by many fans that Moon’s defense has taken a significant dip since the beginning of the year. Carlos Delfino, on the other hand, struggled mightily from the other side of the floor as he was unable to find his shot and continued to do a dribble shot rather than a spot shot. It was a nice thing to see Parker finally play Crawford tight in order to get some turnovers and make him uncomfortable.
On the other side of things, T.J. Ford scored a bunch of points in the final frame, while Jose Calderon gave a little something to every stat category. Toss in some inspired play from Rasho Nesterovic and significant minutes, scoring and defense from Parker, and the Raptors didn’t require a big night from Chris Bosh. Bargnani stood in and became the Raptors’ leading scorer, which allowed Bosh to rest the entire second quarter. This is important considering the Raptors flew out immediately after the game to get ready for the Pacers game tonight.
At the end of the day though, a win today does not make up for a loss two days ago. Against teams under .500, there cannot be any kind of excuses or second guessing. The Raptors require a presence that will get them through those tough times and with the return of Ford and addition of Brezec, the Raptors might finally be able to put the hammer down for the final half of the year.
Next Game: Toronto @ Indiana
Andrea Bargnani Photo Credit: Icon SMI
Comments
By Tfan on February 25th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Watched the first three quarters before switching to the Oscars.
I really think that Mitchell has to sit Moon down until he picks up his defensive intensity. Bargs looked good though. I sure hope he’s comming around. I think the trick is to get him involve with the offense early and hope for the best.
Finally, I agree that we should have 2 W’s instead of one as both Orlando and Cleveland are winning.
By Johnn19 on February 25th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
The best part of the win was TJ’s play in the 4th quarter. It was the first time he has been able to make his usual moves and shooting to score 15 pts. since his return. His play as back-up PG with the second unit is a key to some consistency.
Brezec would seem to be in the perfect situation for himself with TEAM UN.
Nesterovich and Gueridini both have extensive knowledge of him as well as Sam, who was a coach in CHA. If he contributes he will get minutes. He is also a potential replacement for Rasho at less $$ (current 2.7mil) after next season.
By Johnn19 on February 25th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Bargnani’s tour de force of 25pts,7rbs,5ast,2blks shows his great potential as one of the main building blocks for the Raptors franchise.
His last 13 games 4.8rbs and 15pts average is starting to show some consistentcy with 10 games of scoring in double figures (4 x 20+) and only 3 poor games of 4 pts avg.
By Kinnon Yee on February 25th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Tfan - But I’m not sure I’d put Delfino with the starters. He’s jacking up a ton of shots lately from the midrange, something that he can’t do and needs to shy away from. And I think Delfino and Ford can be a good combo, if Delfino gave the ball up to Ford a little more.
Johnn19 - TJ’s work was nice. He needed to find his rhythm. Brezec, I’m very cautiously optimistic. I remember when everyone was high on Moon earlier this year, I was still of the mind of “can he sustain it?” I dunno if he can replace Rasho, unless Bargnani shows some major improvements next year. I’m not overly concerned with Bargs, but there’s a trend that he has a lot of difficulty finding any kind of grove with a layover. That is, if the Raptors have a long break and such, his focus and rhythm usually aren’t there for a few games.
By Anthony RapFan on February 25th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
KY
I’m about to ,but not going to stamp Brezec as a steal of a deal from BC, yet. I’ll wait until 10 games and see what transpires. You were right to forsee a blow out at home, but there is no compensation at all for Friday night. Moon is a few good steps away from his Defensive IQ, where did it go? And i bet you were pulling your hair after 5000000000 times that Leo pointed out Moon should of dunked the ball or just take in foul contact.
By Kinnon Yee on February 25th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Anthony - It’s like you were in my room or something… :p
By Sorael on February 25th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Looks like Brezec should be a useful addition. If he continues to play well BC will probably sign him for next year, so that he can deal Rasho’s expiring contract.
Moon just seems like he’s wearing down mentally. He’s never had to stay focused for such a long time before. Hopefully Sam can get him back on track before the playoffs begin.
By Kinnon Yee on February 25th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Sorael - I dunno if he’s worn down mentally. He just might not be that bright in terms of thinking about the game. A major part of the softness from this Raptors team comes from Moon as he never invites contact, always looks for an easy play, and never really takes a charge or anything like that. It’s a big concern going forward, and I think a big reason why he wasn’t in the league for so long.
Brezec’s verdict is still out. He could be a cheap piece, but that means that Bryan should be looking to move Maceo in the summer as well.
By FLUXLAND on February 25th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Maybe B.C. thinks two bad Cs make one good one. The Slovenian Towers are here, boys! At least you know they wont be arguing like Curry and Randork. Either way, I think Brezec relieves Andrea of some rebounding duties and allows him to shoot. Ala, last night.
The verdict on Moon should be out. When did it come down? I agree with Sorael - he must be somewhat worn out .. he is a rookie after all. For the most part, regardless of age, they all show some sign of adjustment fatigue at some point in the season. His performance at the ASG D.C. is not helping him either. I’m hoping he is saving the stuff from the beginning of the season, for the playoffs. I’d hate for him to burn out then and get crucified in the press. Plus, his non assertiveness on the floor, KY, reminds me of what Andrea looks like out there at times..lost. I’m not sure if thats on them or S.M. Jury is out on that too, I guess.
We have 17 games to win!
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