Toronto has emerged as one of this season’s biggest surprises, posting a strong 14–7 record to sit fourth in the Eastern Conference and at one point pushing hard behind the conference-leading Pistons. But their momentum has cooled: back-to-back losses to the Hornets and Knicks have dropped them into a two-game skid.
The Raptors’ offense has been average, scoring 117.6 points per game, ninth in the East. Their defense, however, remains elite—allowing just 112.9 points per game, second-best in the conference behind only the Celtics. Toronto has also protected home court well, winning seven of nine games so far.
Toronto boasts one of the strongest wing groups in the league. Brandon Ingram leads the team with 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. Scottie Barnes continues to shine on both ends with 19.9 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1.4 steals. RJ Barrett adds 19.4 points and 4.8 rebounds, while Immanuel Quickley provides 16 points and 6.3 assists. With Jakob Poeltl, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Bojan Bogdanovic, Gradey Dick, and others, Toronto has reliable depth across its rotation.
Portland, meanwhile, started the season promisingly but has since slipped to 8–12, sitting 10th in the West. They enter this matchup on a two-game losing streak after falling to the Spurs and Thunder. The Trail Blazers score 118.3 points per game, eighth in the West, but defensive issues have plagued them—they give up 121.2 points per game, the fourth-worst mark in the conference.
Deni Avdija has been Portland’s biggest bright spot, putting up All-Star caliber numbers with 25.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 5.8 assists, including two 30-point triple-doubles. Shaedon Sharpe contributes 20.9 points and 4.8 rebounds with explosive athleticism. Jerami Grant adds 19.1 points, while Jrue Holiday chips in 16.7 points and 8.3 assists. Toumani Camara and Donovan Clingan also score in double figures, with Clingan averaging a double-double when healthy.
Chinese center Yang Hansheng has appeared in each of Portland’s last four games, though his playing time has been limited. Over the past three games, he has logged a total of just eight minutes without scoring. For the season, Yang averages 6.9 minutes, 2.5 points, 1.5 rebounds, 0.6 assists, and 0.4 blocks. For him, staying ready and capitalizing on opportunities will be crucial as he works to secure a more stable role.
Historically, Portland holds the upper hand—winning eight of the last 10 matchups, including sweeping the season series in each of the past two years. They enter this game having won four straight against Toronto. Both teams are on two-game losing streaks and urgently need a win to regain momentum, setting the stage for a competitive matchup.
On the injury front, the Blazers remain shorthanded with Holiday, Lillard, Henderson, Thybulle, Cook, and Wesley still out. Donovan Clingan, who missed the last game, has been upgraded to questionable and may return. Toronto continues to be without Barrett, but the rest of the roster is available.
Score Prediction
Raptors 118, Trail Blazers 112
