29/82: December 22nd vs. HOU

Final Score: Raptors 110, Rockets 114

Ja’Kobe Walter made six 3pt shots in arguably his best game of the season Sunday night in a losing effort against Houston at home.

Not to be outdone, 13 of Mississauga native Dillon Brooks’ 27 points came from the charity stripe. Former Raptor Fred VanVleet finished 1/10 from the field for two points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Jalen Green added 22 points of his own. Alperen Sengun unsurprisingly finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds. He added five assists, again highlighting his impressive playmaking skills for a centre.

Scottie Barnes did not look aggressive early, taking his first seven shots from beyond the arc. He finished 0/8 from 3pt on the night. His shooting struggles were prevalent inside the arc as well, making only 2/7 two-point shots.

Another highlight for the Raptors Sunday night was Jamal Shead. He finished with 11p/6r/10a and shot 5/7 from the field. An efficient night where he flirted with a triple-double.

Chris Boucher added 15 off the bench and it’s likely his name will continue to come up in trade talks as contenders will look for veteran help before the deadline. Especially if he keeps contributing as a reliable sixth man.

Question for the Rockets: It hasn’t stopped them from winning (third in the Western Conference at the moment), but will Houston look to add a playmaker before the deadline? They currently sit 29th in assists per game.

The Raptors head to New York to face the Knicks tonight. 7:30pm tip off.