RJ Barrett scored a season-high 31 points to lead the Toronto Raptors to a 110-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night.
Chris Boucher provided crucial support with 22 points off the bench, while Jakob Poeltl recorded his fourth straight double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds.
Scottie Barnes returned from an orbital injury, adding 17 points and six assists in 27 minutes.
Toronto dominated late in the fourth quarter, using a 13-1 run to turn a 95-92 deficit into a 105-96 lead with just over two minutes left.
Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 26 points, 21 of which came in the second half. Julius Randle contributed 23 points and nine rebounds, but their efforts fell short as the Timberwolves extended their losing streak in Toronto to 20 games.
Jaden McDaniels added 22 points for Minnesota, while Rudy Gobert posted 13 points and 11 rebounds.
The Raptors’ improved free-throw shooting played a significant role, as they converted 24 of 30 attempts in the second half after going just 5-for-9 in the first.
Toronto’s defense also forced 17 turnovers, which they converted into key transition opportunities.
Barnes, wearing protective goggles after missing 11 games, played a key role in the final stretch. His return adds depth to a Raptors lineup looking to build momentum after a slow start to the season.
The Timberwolves, now 8-7, struggled to capitalize on second-half surges, despite Edwards and Randle’s combined scoring. Minnesota’s bench production was limited, with Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo combining for only 13 points.
Toronto, now 4-12, will aim to extend its winning streak as they prepare for upcoming matchups.
