Raptors Ready for a Big Day in Canadian Sports
Canada's sports fans are in for a treat this Sunday, with an early start that promises to keep them glued to their screens. As the nation revels in hockey pride from the Olympic gold medal showdown between Canada and the United States, the Toronto Raptors are gearing up to face the Milwaukee Bucks.
With Ontario allowing alcohol sales from 6 a.m. EST, expect a lively crowd ready to carry the energy from the ice to the hardwood.
Scheduled for a 3:30 p.m. EST tip-off on TSN, the Raptors and the Canadian men’s hockey team share intriguing parallels as they head into their respective battles. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
Life Without Their Leader
Scottie Barnes, the Raptors’ All-Star, is out for personal reasons, marking his second absence this season. Much like Sidney Crosby for Team Canada, Barnes is the pulse of the Raptors. In his last absence, the team fell to the Celtics 125-117 on Jan. 9, and they’ve struggled without him, posting a 4-14 record over the past two seasons.
Even with Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined for the Bucks, missing Barnes is significant. His knack for creating transition opportunities mirrors the explosive speed of Connor McDavid in hockey.
Barnes’ ability to open passing lanes is unmatched, making him a critical asset. The Bucks, rejuvenated from their 139-118 victory over the Pelicans, will still be a formidable challenge, boasting nine steals and eight blocks in that game.
Defensively, Barnes channels the brilliance of Cale Makar from the Colorado Avalanche, turning defense into offense. With the Bucks’ scorers like Kevin Porter Jr. and Cam Thomas, who combined for 52 points and shot 75% from three against New Orleans, the Raptors will rely on perimeter defenders Jamal Shead and Ja’Kobe Walter to step up in Barnes’ absence.
A Shaky Last Line of Defense
Jakob Poeltl is back on the court, playing consecutive games for the first time since mid-December. While his presence is reassuring, Poeltl doesn’t seem to be at full strength, possibly due to a lingering back injury or the need to ramp up his workload.
Poeltl is expected to be the team’s steady anchor, much like Jordan Binnington in hockey, providing a calming influence on defense and relieving offensive pressure. His performance will be crucial for the Raptors' success, especially in tight games where every possession counts.
With potential absences of Myles Turner and Antetokounmpo, Poeltl’s role becomes even more vital against the athletic Jericho Sims and the tenacious Bobby Portis, who recently recorded a double-double against the Pelicans.
Next Star Up
Brandon Ingram is stepping into the spotlight, drawing comparisons to hockey stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Macklin Celebrini. Fortunately, Ingram has avoided major injuries this season, unlike MacKinnon, who is not at full strength at the Olympics. Both share the responsibility of elevating their teams in the absence of key co-stars.
Ingram delivered a stellar 31-point performance against the Bulls on Feb. 19, including a clutch mid-range jumper that secured the win. Similarly, MacKinnon’s game-winning goal propelled Canada to the gold-medal game.
As the playoffs approach, Ingram’s confidence and stage presence will be pivotal in keeping the Raptors in the hunt in the Eastern Conference race.
With the Raptors set to follow a thrilling hockey match, fans are in for a day of intense sports action, where basketball and hockey narratives intertwine.