Opinion
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Clash at the Footprint Center: Toronto Raptors Set to Battle Phoenix Suns

As the Toronto Raptors prepare to face off against the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward the momentum from their recent victory over the Atlanta Hawks. The Raptors, who currently hold a 21-36 record, managed an impressive 123-121 win against the Hawks on February 24th. Despite being away from home, there's reason for optimism.


TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 29: Dennis Schroder #17 of the Toronto Raptors drives to the basket during the game against the Phoenix Suns on November 29, 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)

The Raptors' performance in Atlanta showcased their offensive prowess with a solid field goal percentage of 49 and an exceptional free throw percentage of 100. Their ability to maintain a lead for over 41 minutes was crucial and will be equally important against the Suns. The bench contributed significantly with 54 points, demonstrating depth that could be vital in upcoming games.


However, it wasn't just offense where Toronto excelled; they also showed defensive tenacity by blocking seven shots and limiting personal fouls to just twenty. This balance between offense and defense might be what they need when facing Phoenix.


TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 29: Dennis Schroder #17 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates after scoring a three-point basket against the Phoenix Suns during first half action at the Scotiabank Arena on November 29, 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 February 23rd against Brooklyn Nets at Scotiabank Arena, TOR showed they could dominate on their home court with a decisive win of 121-93. They led for nearly three-quarters of that game and outperformed BKN in almost every statistical category including fast break points where they held a staggering advantage scoring 46 compared to BKN's mere ten.


Yet it's not all rosy for TOR; their previous encounter with Indiana Pacers on February 15th ended narrowly in defeat despite putting up an impressive fight. Scoring was high on both sides but ultimately TOR fell short by two points (127-125). This loss highlighted some areas needing improvement such as turnovers which stood at fifteen compared to Pacers' eight.


TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 29:  Jordan Goodwin #0 of the Phoenix Suns goes to the basket during the game on November 29, 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 Mark Blinch/NBAE via Getty Images)

Looking ahead to March 7th's game against PHX, fans should expect TOR’s players like Pascal Siakam or Fred VanVleet (if healthy) to step up once again as leaders both offensively and defensively. The key battle may well be controlling possession since turnovers have been problematic in past games.


The Suns will not make it easy though; any team playing host aims to capitalize on home-court advantage but given recent performances by TOR there is every chance this could be another closely contested match-up worthy of prime-time viewing.


Fans should mark their calendars for March 7th when this exciting matchup tips off at nine PM Eastern Time at Footprint Center in Phoenix. For those unable to attend in person, catch all the action live on AZFamily or SportsNet networks – this is one game you won't want to miss!

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