In an exciting rematch, the Toronto Raptors are set to take on the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA Cup following their opening game of the season. Both teams hold a 1-0 record in the group, and with their overall records at 4-4, this matchup will be crucial in determining which team can advance in the tournament. Remarkably, the Raptors have never reached this stage in their history.
The current standings in East Group A show the Hawks leading with a +20 point differential, while the Raptors have a +11. The Washington Wizards trail behind, yet to play, while the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers sit at 0-1 with negative differentials.
The Raptors’ first encounter with the Hawks was a memorable moment, especially for fans who attended the watch party hosted by Raptors Republic. Toronto dominated that game, marking a historic season opener played outside of Canada—a rarity for the franchise, which has only started a season on the road seven times in its 31 years.
As the teams prepare for their second clash, the Raptors are looking to replicate their success. In the previous meeting, the wing trio of Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Brandon Ingram shined brightly, combining for an impressive 63 points, along with 23 rebounds and 17 assists. Their shooting efficiency was remarkable, hitting 59.5% from the field.
Currently, the Raptors sit in 8th place in the Eastern Conference, with a strong offensive rating of 117.3, ranking 7th in the league. The trio of Barnes, Barrett, and Ingram has emerged as one of the most potent scoring groups in the NBA, with each player averaging over 20 points per game. Ingram, in particular, has been a standout performer, demonstrating exceptional mid-range shooting and solid efficiency.
Barnes is leading the charge with stellar defensive efforts, contributing significantly as both a scorer and a defender. With his solid shooting from beyond the arc and versatility, he is proving to be the franchise’s cornerstone. Barrett also complements the trio effectively, showcasing his ability to finish plays and make timely shots.
On the other hand, the Hawks come into the game without their star guard Trae Young, who is sidelined with a sprained MCL. This absence has opened the door for Canadian newcomer Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who has stepped up impressively in Young’s absence. Jalen Johnson has also been a key asset for the Hawks, leading the team in scoring and rebounding and being instrumental in their recent success.
As the Raptors aim for their fourth consecutive victory, they will need to focus on limiting Johnson’s impact. The game promises to be highly competitive, and a win could be pivotal for the Raptors in their pursuit of advancement in the NBA Cup.
With the tip-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at the State Farm Arena, fans will be eagerly watching to see if the Raptors can continue their winning streak and make history in this tournament format.