The game kicked off energetically, with the Raptors hitting their shots early. Quickley scored three rapid three-pointers, and Scottie Barnes matched up well against Joel Embiid. The 76ers, dressed in their Iverson-era black jerseys and playing on a matching court, kept pace and narrowly outscored the Raptors 17-15 in the first segment.
Trendon Watford was particularly active at the start, contributing 7 points and grabbing two offensive rebounds, capitalizing on the defensive lapses against him. Philadelphia focused on feeding Tyrese Maxey, the NBA’s leading scorer, which kept their offense fluid.
The Raptors responded with a series of three-pointers—two from Shead and one from Barrett—that helped them pull ahead. Substituting Sandro Mamukelashvili allowed them to move the ball more effectively; 10 of their first 11 baskets were assisted. Collin Murray-Boyles also appeared off the bench for the first time, marking a larger shift in the team’s rotation and lineup.
Murray-Boyles impressed immediately, providing defensive intensity by pressuring Oubre Jr. in transition, rolling aggressively to the basket, and facilitating ball movement as required.
"Provided some punch on defense, plucked Oubre Jr. in the open court while providing ball pressure, rolled to the bucket, and moved the ball on when he was meant to."
Despite the strong individual and team efforts, the Raptors ultimately could not maintain their lead against the 76ers.
Summary: The Raptors showed promising teamwork and individual effort but struggled to overcome the 76ers, highlighting areas for improvement in sustaining leads and defensive consistency.
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