Toronto Raptors: Top five performances from a disappointing week 12

2. Serge Ibaka

Opponent: Charlotte Hornets

Stat line: 23 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 blocks, 53 FG%

Ever since Marc Gasol went out with his injury and Serge Ibaka was inserted into the starting lineup, he has performed admirably for the team as a walking double-double threat with the ability to space the floor and block shots. This game was no different for Ibaka.

Ibaka and the Raptors however clearly looked fatigued in the first quarter though as he was only able to tally one rebound in the quarter as the Raptors were down by two points after the first. The second quarter wasn’t any different for Ibaka as nothing was working for him. He finished the quarter with two points and one rebound as Toronto led by five heading into halftime.

Nick Nurse must have said something to Ibaka at halftime to motivate him as he came out looking to score. He finished the third quarter with seven points, three rebounds and one assist as his touch looked to be back and the Raptors were holding a slim two-point lead heading into the fourth. Ibaka did not let up and continued his impressive second half as he finished the fourth quarter with eight points and six rebounds.

Unfortunately for the Raptors though, they were unable to maintain their lead and needed overtime to finish this game. Ibaka, riding the hot hand continued his great performance. He added another six points and one assist as the Raptors were able to hold onto a two-point win backed by his great performance.

With the Raptors finally getting healthy bodies back, Ibaka may not be as hot as he has been over these past few weeks going forward. However, he is still an extremely valuable member of this team and will continue to have a big role. Maybe he even continues to start when Gasol returns.