VICTORY!

Ahh, yes! The losing skid is FINALLY over, Raptors fans! Last night, the team hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto and won 111-100 to snap an ugly 13-game losing streak. Don't be deceived by the final score, however. This was a hard-fought victory for Toronto, as the Wolves hung in there late in the 4th quarter. With just under 3 minutes to go, Sebastian Telfair knocked down a 3-pointer to make the score 103-99 in favour of the Raptors. However, Toronto took care of things with an 8-1 run to seal the deal, with 4 players scoring during the run. Due to the injuries to both Jerryd Bayless and Leandro Barbosa, starting point guard Jose Calderon had to play a ton of minutes in the game. He only scored 6 points, but his game was still magnificent. Jose dished out 19 assists to his teammates, which was key to the win. This also tied him with Damon Stoudamire for the all-time team lead for assists in one game. Along the way, Calderon also picked up 3 steals. Starting centre Andrea Bargnani also had a great game for the Raptors, adding in a game-high 30 points and getting 4 rebounds as well. Finally, we must also congradulate Amir Johnson for his fine game. He scored 19 points on 8-10 shooting (80%), pulled down 12 rebounds, dished out a career-high 6 assists, and picked up 3 steals and 2 blocks. Raptors head coach Jay Triano even said of Amir's performance,"I thought Amir was unbelievable, even six assists for him. His line is almost perfect basketball for a power forward. The number of deflections and steals, he was great." Trey Johnson, who is currently signed on a 10-day contract with the team, also scored a career-high 10 points in the game.
Finally, some numbers from the game...the Raptors picked up 35 assists on 46 made shots. This victory marks the 6th game this season where Andrea Bargnani has scored 30 points or more. Amir Johnson picked up his 10th double-double for the season with this game. Toronto outscored Minnesota 50-38 in terms of points in the paint. All in all, it was a superb effort from a team that sorely needed a win. Now, they get 3 days off before they have to play the Milwaukee Bucks in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. That game will start at 7 PM and it will air on TSN. Here is the recap for the win vs Minnesota.

Don't forget, the London Knights play tonight vs the Bulls in Belleville at 7 PM. You can hear the game on AM 1290 CJBK on the radio or just go to the Knights official website to listen online there. Until next post, take care.