In a thrilling Sunday afternoon matchup that required extra time, the Toronto Raptors kicked off a crucial five-game homestand with a statement victory, defeating the Golden State Warriors 141-127 in overtime at Scotiabank Arena. The game was headlined by a historic performance from Raptors' star Scottie Barnes and the annual must-see spectacle of Stephen Curry's visit to his hometown.
Barnes Eclipses Curry with Career-Defining Performance
While the spotlight often follows Stephen Curry in Toronto, it was Scottie Barnes who authored a legendary performance, completely dominating the game. Barnes posted a monstrous triple-double with 23 points, a career-high 25 rebounds, and 10 assists. His work on the glass was particularly devastating, as he hauled down 12 rebounds by halftime and shattered his previous career best of 17.
The Raptors' strategy of deploying Barnes at centre in a small-ball lineup, partly due to RJ Barrett's return from a 15-game knee injury absence, proved masterful. Barnes was at his most effective operating in the post, and his size overwhelmed the Warriors' defenders all afternoon. His 25-rebound, 10-assist stat line is a rarity the Raptors hope he can flirt with regularly.
Stephen Curry, facing a barrage of defenders including Ochai Agbaji and Jamal Shead, still managed to score 39 points. However, he was called for a critical offensive foul while trying to shake free on the final possession of regulation and was not at his sharpest, ultimately being outshone by Barnes on the day.
Defensive Turnaround Seals the Win
The Raptors entered the game reeling from a 139-point defensive performance in a loss to the lowly Washington Wizards just two nights prior. For the first three quarters against Golden State, similar defensive struggles persisted, as the Warriors knocked down 12 three-pointers and capitalized on easy put-backs.
The tide turned dramatically in the latter part of the third quarter. Sparked by encouragement from head coach Darko Rajakovic, the Raptors ramped up their intensity. Three consecutive forced turnovers led to six quick points, and Toronto held the Warriors scoreless for the final 1:45 of the quarter. This defensive stand provided the foundation for their push to overtime and eventual victory.
Veteran Presence and What's Next
The game also highlighted the value of veteran savvy, embodied by Warriors forward Draymond Green. When in control, Green remains one of the league's most unique talents, contributing elite defence and timely shooting. His presence stood in contrast to a Raptors squad that lacks a player with that specific, gritty edge, a role once filled by players like Charles Oakley.
RJ Barrett returned to action for the first time in over a month, getting his feet wet as he works back into game shape. The Raptors continue to await the return of starting centre Jakob Poeltl from a back injury.
The victory improved Toronto's record as they immediately prepared for the second half of a back-to-back. Their homestand continues at Scotiabank Arena against the Orlando Magic, who are expected to be without star forward Franz Wagner due to an ankle injury. It will be the first meeting between the two teams this season and Toronto's first look at Desmond Bane in a Magic uniform.
