Opinion
3 min read

Scotiabank Arena Hosts Eager Clash: Toronto Raptors vs Atlanta Hawks

As the Toronto Raptors prepare to host the Atlanta Hawks at Scotiabank Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying matchup. The Raptors, coming off a thrilling victory against the same Hawks just two days prior on December 14th, have shown they possess the firepower and tenacity to overcome their rivals.


TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 13: Wesley Matthews #32 of the Atlanta Hawks drives to the basket during the game against the Toronto Raptors  on December 13, 2023 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/NBAE via Getty Images)

In that recent encounter, the Raptors outscored the Hawks 135-128 in a high-scoring affair that showcased Toronto's offensive prowess. With a field goal percentage of 57.5 and an impressive three-point shooting rate of 52.9 percent, it was clear that when their shots fall, they can run any team off the court. Notably, their fast break performance was particularly lethal as they converted on an astounding 83 percent of those opportunities.


The bench also played a crucial role in securing this win by contributing a solid 21 points to keep up the momentum when starters rested. However, one area where improvement is needed is turnovers; with 15 in their last game against Atlanta, ball security will be paramount if they wish to repeat their success.


TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 13: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks warms up before facing the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on December 13, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andrew Lahodynskyj/Getty Images)

On defense, while there were some bright spots like blocking nine shots and drawing fouls effectively (18 drawn), there's room for tightening up as evidenced by allowing Atlanta to score at an efficiency rate of nearly 125 points per possession.


The upcoming game presents another chance for Toronto to assert its dominance over an Atlanta team that has struggled defensively this season. The Hawks' defensive rating stood at over 130 points per possession during their last meeting – something that should have coach Nick Nurse devising strategies aimed at exploiting these weaknesses once again.


TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 13: Gary Trent Jr. #33 of the Toronto Raptors handles the ball during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on December 13, 2023 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/NBAE via Getty Images)

Atlanta does bring its own threats; notably from beyond the arc where they hit nearly 44 percent of threes in our previous clash. Their ability to spread out defenses and create scoring opportunities cannot be underestimated despite their less than stellar record so far this season (9 wins -14 losses before facing Toronto).


Looking ahead though, it's hard not to feel confident about Toronto’s chances given how well-rounded their performance was just two nights ago against these very opponents – especially considering how well they've been playing at home recently.


Fans eager for another exhilarating night of basketball should mark December 16th on their calendars when tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST at Scotiabank Arena in downtown Toronto. For those unable to attend in person but still wishing not miss any action can tune into TSN internationally or BSSE channel number 649 if watching from away markets.

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