Raptors Look to Bounce Back at Home Against Banged-Up Trail Blazers
The Toronto Raptors return to Scotiabank Arena tonight looking to stop the bleeding after back-to-back road losses. It’s been a quick swing in momentum for a team that, just a few days ago, looked like it was starting to find its rhythm. Now, after dropping two straight - including a frustrating collapse in Charlotte - the Raptors are searching for answers and a much-needed win.
Raptors Outlook: Defensive Identity Holding Strong, But Offense Needs a Spark
Let’s start with the good: Toronto’s defense is still doing its job. Despite the two recent losses, the Raptors remain in the top six in defensive rating - a stat that tends to age well over the course of a season. That’s the kind of foundation that can keep a team competitive even when the offense isn’t clicking.
But the offense? That’s where the cracks are showing.
Heading into their game against the Knicks, Toronto boasted a top-10 offensive rating. One rough night later, and they’ve slipped to 13th.
That’s not catastrophic, but it’s a reminder of how volatile early-season numbers can be - and how quickly a couple of cold shooting nights can drag down a team’s efficiency.
The loss in Charlotte was particularly tough. Toronto looked like the fresher team on paper - they were rested, while the Hornets were on the second night of a back-to-back - but when it mattered most, the Raptors’ offense dried up. They let a winnable game slip away late, and that’s the kind of result that can sting in a tight Eastern Conference race.
Still, this isn’t panic time. The Raptors have shown flashes of cohesion, with recent home wins over the Pacers, Cavs, and Nets. Tonight’s matchup offers a prime opportunity to get back on track.
Trail Blazers Outlook: Injuries and Off-Court Distractions Cloud a Promising Start
Portland comes into this one with its own set of challenges. After finishing last season at 36-46 and just three games shy of the Play-In, the Trail Blazers entered 2025 with renewed optimism. But that momentum has been hard to sustain.
The absence of Damian Lillard, who rejoined the team in the offseason but won’t suit up this year, looms large. And the mid-season departure of head coach Chauncey Billups - following a gambling investigation - threw another wrench into the mix. Interim coach Tiago Splitter has done a respectable job keeping the ship afloat, guiding the team to a 7-10 mark since taking over.
On the court, Deni Avdija has emerged as the go-to guy, averaging an impressive 25.8 points per game. He’s been the offensive engine for a team that’s had to shuffle lineups and roles due to a long list of injuries. Rookie big man Donovan Clingan, who’s been a force on the glass with 10 rebounds per game, is questionable tonight due to illness - a potential blow to Portland’s interior presence.
Veteran guard Jrue Holiday, back in Portland after a brief stop in Boston, has been a steady hand with 8.3 assists per game. But he won’t be available tonight due to a right calf injury, further thinning Portland’s backcourt depth.
Projected Starters
Portland Trail Blazers:
- PG: Sidy Cissoko
- SG: Deni Avdija
- SF: Kris Murray
- PF: Toumani Camara
- C: Jerami Grant
Toronto Raptors:
- PG: Immanuel Quickley
- SG: Ja’Kobe Walter
- SF: Brandon Ingram
- PF: Scottie Barnes
- C: Jakob Poeltl
Injury Report
Raptors:
- Chucky Hepburn (Two-Way) - Out
- RJ Barrett (Knee) - Questionable
- A.J.
Lawson (Two-Way) - Out
- Alijah Martin (Two-Way) - Out
- Jonathan Mogbo (G-League) - Out
Trail Blazers:
- Donovan Clingan (Illness) - Questionable
- Javonte Cooke (Two-Way) - Out
- Scoot Henderson (Left Hamstring) - Out
- Jrue Holiday (Right Calf) - Out
- Damian Lillard (Left Achilles) - Out
- Matisse Thybulle (Left Thumb) - Out
- Blake Wesley (Right Foot) - Out
What to Watch For
This game could come down to which team can better manage their current limitations. For Toronto, it’s about rediscovering their offensive rhythm while continuing to lean on their defense. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram will be key in setting the tone early, especially if RJ Barrett - listed as questionable with a knee issue - isn’t available.
Portland, meanwhile, needs another big night from Avdija and a committee effort to replace the playmaking of Holiday. The frontcourt battle could be pivotal, especially if Clingan can’t go. Jakob Poeltl has a chance to assert himself inside.
Tip-Off Info
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- TV: TSN
- Radio: Sportsnet 590
- Venue: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto
Two teams with very different storylines meet tonight in Toronto. The Raptors are trying to stop a mini slide and protect home court.
The Blazers are trying to stay afloat amidst injuries and instability. One thing’s for sure - both squads need this one.