The Toronto Raptors are determined to end their six-game losing streak as they host the Houston Rockets on Sunday night.
Toronto Raptors:
- The Raptors have suffered close losses recently, falling 122-121 to the Chicago Bulls on Monday and 101-94 to the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday, despite leading by 10 points in the third quarter.
- With Jakob Poeltl (groin) and RJ Barrett (illness) out on Thursday, the Raptors fielded their youngest starting lineup in franchise history, averaging 22 years and 187 days.
- The inexperience showed in the fourth quarter against Brooklyn, where Toronto was outscored 31-18. Scottie Barnes, returning from a sprained ankle, scored 16 points but managed only two points, two turnovers, and three fouls in the fourth quarter.
- Toronto shot 36.8 percent (7-for-19) in the fourth quarter, including 1-for-10 from 3-point range.
Houston Rockets:
- The Rockets have won three of their past four games, including a dominant 133-113 home victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday.
- Houston’s hot shooting game on Thursday included 57.5 percent (50-for-87) from the field and 43.6 percent (17-for-39) from 3-point range.
- The Rockets are 12-0 when shooting 45 percent or better and 3-0 when shooting 50 percent or better.
- Jalen Green led the way with 34 points on 13-for-22 shooting on Thursday.
- Houston had 34 assists, including nine from former Raptor Fred VanVleet, who also scored 13 points.
- The Rockets capitalized on 28 fast-break points and 19 points off the 12 turnovers committed by the Pelicans.
Team Performance:
- Houston and Toronto split their two games last season. They will meet again on Feb. 9 in Houston.
The Raptors will need to overcome their recent struggles and find consistency, while the Rockets will aim to continue their hot shooting and build on their recent success.
