Raptors vs. Lakers Preview: Two Teams Looking to Regain Their Rhythm
When the Toronto Raptors host the Los Angeles Lakers at Scotiabank Arena this Thursday, it won’t just be another regular-season matchup - it’s a meeting between two teams trying to recalibrate after recent missteps.
Let’s start with the Raptors. They’re coming off a rough 90-116 loss to the New York Knicks, a game where the wheels came off early and never quite got back on.
Toronto struggled to find its rhythm against a Knicks squad that dictated the pace and controlled the game from start to finish. The Raptors’ rotation tried to respond, but the cohesion wasn’t there.
The offense stalled, and the defense couldn’t contain New York’s attack.
Brandon Ingram, who’s been adjusting to a new system and a different role within the Raptors' evolving identity, will be looking to bounce back in a big way. He’s shown flashes of his scoring ability and playmaking, but Toronto needs more consistency from its top-tier talent - especially when the bench unit isn’t providing much lift. With the Raptors trying to find their footing under a system that demands fluid ball movement and defensive discipline, this upcoming clash with the Lakers is a chance to reset.
As for the Lakers, they’re coming into this one after a jarring 108-125 loss to the Phoenix Suns - a game that snapped their recent winning streak. Luka Dončić did everything he could to keep L.A. in the fight, pouring in 38 points in another individual masterclass.
But the rest of the squad? Out of sync.
The ball movement lacked purpose, defensive rotations were a step slow, and Phoenix took advantage.
The Lakers have been riding the highs and lows this season, with Dončić often carrying the load offensively. But to get back on track, they’ll need more from the supporting cast - especially in transition defense and perimeter shooting. Against a Raptors team that can be dangerous when they’re clicking, Los Angeles can’t afford another flat performance.
Thursday’s matchup is shaping up to be a test of resilience for both squads. Toronto wants to prove that the loss to New York was a blip, not a trend. The Lakers, meanwhile, are trying to show they’re more than just Luka and a prayer.
Two teams. Two recent stumbles. One big opportunity to course-correct.