Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized the team’s energy and execution following Tuesday’s 121-95 victory over the Miami Heat at Scotiabank Arena.
“For the majority of the game, we played with intensity that you need to play those type of games. We still had some breakdowns on the defensive end that we need to clean up and continue getting better, but overall intensity and urgency was there for the majority of the game,” Rajakovic said.
The Raptors received standout performances from Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram, who combined for 48 points. On their simultaneous effectiveness, Rajakovic remarked, “It’s all about winning and you have two winners over there who are going to do everything possible to help the team win. They did what their job is tonight. Really proud of both of them.”
Rookie Collin Murray-Boyles also drew praise for his contributions. “I have utmost respect and trust in that guy. He’s playing basketball with no agenda. He’s going to be guarding wings, he’s going to be guarding fives, he’s going to be rebounding, he’s going to be running in transition every single time. He does so much for us and helps us so much every time when he’s on the floor,” Rajakovic said.
Barnes’ performance was also highlighted for its intensity. “He played definitely with more force. He was really locked in. The energy he’s playing with is contagious. It trickles down on our whole team. Just getting a little bit of extra rest and being ready for the importance of this game is what he did today. He just really played winning basketball,” the coach added.
The coach also addressed the development of Barnes alongside Jakob Poeltl. “Getting any minutes together on the court is very important for his development and to get chemistry with Jak. Defensively, those two do an outstanding job and rebound the ball really well together,” Rajakovic said.
Murray-Boyles’ time on the court was also seen as significant. “Super important minutes that he gave us tonight. Him playing tonight also took a little bit of load from Scottie, who has to do it all, including point guard duties. I really appreciate how quickly he stepped up and gave us all he got tonight,” Rajakovic noted.
The Raptors improved to 3-0 against the Heat this season, moving within a game of Atlanta for the No. 5 spot in the Eastern Conference. Rajakovic cautioned that despite the strong performance, the team still has work ahead. “No, because we’re really banged up still. Several guys played through a lot of pain, but that’s NBA. There is much more all of those guys can give and do,” he said.
Toronto’s next matchup against Miami on Thursday offers another chance to reinforce momentum and continue their push for a playoff berth.
