On December 16, the Toronto Raptors returned to Scotiabank Arena for a matchup against the Chicago Bulls.
In the Raptors' last outing on December 12 against the Miami Heat, Toronto showcased some noteworthy highlights, including a triple-double performance by hometown hero RJ Barrett. However, the significance of this performance is open to debate, as Barrett's triple-double may indeed be regarded as one of the least efficient and effective of its kind in recent history.
With that in mind, it was intriguing to ponder who might rise to the occasion for Toronto this time and whether they could keep the game within reach.
Lo and behold, RJ Barrett would return to form once again in the absence of his co-star Scottie Barnes, who is recovering from a recent ankle sprain. He wouldn't do it alone, though; a willing backup co-star has stepped up to help share the load left by Barnes: Gradey Dick.
Barrett had shown some flashes alongside Dick in the past, but it was primarily his big man co-star, Jakob Poeltl, who surprisingly emerged as a dominant force during Scottie Barnes' initial absence due to injury. In this game, however, the Raptors lost their Austrian center to a groin injury sustained in the second half, creating an opportunity for Dick to step up even further.
On a night when some unexpected players would step up as key contributors for the Raptors, the majority of Toronto's offensive burden was borne by the exciting Dick and Barrett tag team.
Gradey Dick and RJ Barrett are stepping up with Scottie Barnes out
Gradey Dick contributed 27 points on 45% shooting from the field, making three of his nine three-pointers. Additionally, he recorded six rebounds, a +15 plus/minus, and had an efficient night at the free-throw line, going 6-for-7. Overall, it was an impressive night for the Raptors' young talent, who needed a big game like this to prove his early season dominance was no fluke.
On the flip side, you can always count on RJ Barrett for a well-balanced mix of scoring, playmaking, and hustle — qualities that have become his signature on the Toronto Raptors.
Barrett would score 32 points on 45% shooting from the field, including two of four attempts from beyond the arc. One criticism of Barrett's game is his tendency for sloppy turnovers, and that was evident in this matchup against the Bulls, where he recorded six. However, he compensated for this weakness by performing admirably at the free-throw line, going an impressive 8-for-9.
Moreover, Barrett's seamless ability to be present all over the court was on full display against the Bulls, where he recorded nine assists, five rebounds, two steals, and one block.
Although Toronto ultimately faltered, losing by a narrow margin of 122-121, the Raptors showcased their ability to keep seemingly lost games within reach, often rallying from the brink of defeat to make things interesting. They owe much of this resilience to their talented duo of Gradey Dick and RJ Barrett, who have played a significant role in their efforts.