Brandon Ingram delivered a season-high 38 points as the Toronto Raptors defeated the Miami Heat 128-114 at Scotiabank Arena, strengthening their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
Toronto improved to 45-35 and moved into fifth place, with Ingram anchoring both scoring and creation in a pivotal late-season win.
Ingram explained the early approach after Miami’s opening surge and the need to respond quickly on both ends.
“Coming out early in that game, we knew they was going to give us their best hit and uh we had to respond defensively and offensively,” Ingram said.
He pointed to Miami’s shot-making and Toronto’s ability to withstand pressure after the first run.
“Tyler came out, gunning, made a few shots and everybody was in attack mode, so we had to be able to withstand the first run and just fight back and continue to do it.”
With the win coming at a critical stage of the season, Ingram addressed Toronto’s positioning in the standings and its approach to closing games.
“Well, I say it’s a good time to be in rhythm going into these playoffs,” he said.
He emphasized a structured focus rather than scoreboard watching.
“We take it game by game, try to get better, try to figure out what schemes we want to do for the playoffs and how do we attack each and every game and have a sense of urgency on both sides of the basketball.”
Ingram also noted the importance of maintaining discipline during the final stretch.
“I think these last two games it’s a chance for us to have a focus and take things serious leading up until into the playoffs.”
Toronto’s win improved its control of postseason destiny, but Ingram kept the focus internal rather than external pressure.
“We just take it game by game. And you know I like I said I’ve stopped looking at the standings and just focus on how I can be my best self on any given night.”
A key sequence in the game saw Ingram finish through contact and recover misses around the rim, creating second-chance opportunities for Toronto.
“I definitely wanted to dunk the ball over Kel’el Ware… I couldn’t get my hand on the ball, but you know, I just try to be aggressive.”
He explained how rim pressure shapes Toronto’s offense even when shots do not fall.
“It brings more help over to over to me and then I’m able to just survey the basketball floor, make the right passes.”
Ingram added that attacking downhill opened up the floor more than usual against Miami’s defensive coverages.
“I seen more openings around the paint than ever tonight and I just wanted to continue to attack.”
He also praised rookie Collin Murray-Boyles’ physical presence and impact in high-pressure moments.
“He’ll thrive because they won’t call fouls on him and he pretty strong… he’ll be able to offensive rebound, drive to the basket, finish strong.”
Ingram closed by highlighting head coach Darko Rajakovic’s influence on his development and accountability.
“He holds me accountable on and off the floor… he’s made me a better defender,” Ingram said.
