The Toronto Raptors felt like they had woke up from a hangover in their first pre-season game versus Giannis Antetokounmpo and the new-look Miami Heat.
In an extremely inconsequential game, the Raptors looked lethargic and disorganized throughout. But who can blame them when they had only approximately six rotation players healthy in this game? Kawhi Leonard, Jamison Battle, and Allen Graves did not play, so all eyes were on everyone else.
RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes dominated in their short stints. Barrett played 17 minutes and put up 15 points. Barnes played 12 minutes and added 11 points and 2 assists. Collin Murray-Boyles pitched in with 6 points and 9 rebounds, showing off his new, bouncy athleticism on a few rebounds throughout the game. He opened out the game by forcing a turnover on Giannis.
We got to see a lot of the future G-League guys in this one. Nimari Burnett played 24 minutes, Malachi Smith played 30. Tyreke Key poured in 15 points. Chucky Hepburn added 11.
But otherwise? A pretty quiet and unremarkable game.
The Raptors tried stuff, but it was the warm-up of all warm-ups.
Here is a full recap:
