This was a very meaningful game for both teams as the Raptors try to bring momentum into the playoffs while the Hornets, on the other hand, are trying to get in. In the end, Toronto won the game 92-74.
DeMar DeRozan had 18 points to go along with 7 assists. It was a poor shooting night for DeMar but he had a good game on defense. Greivis Vasquez racked up 16 points; he had a good all-around game with 4 assists and grabbed 5 boards.
Kemba Walker had 15 points. It was an off night for him, shooting 5-13 from the field. Gerald Henderson only had 9 points. This is a shock, because whenever he sees a Raptors jersey, he lights it up. With this loss, the Hornets are now 3 games behind the Celtics.
For the Raptors, this is a big win; they played great defense. If you are Dwane Casey, this is what you like to see. The Raptors had a poor first half, but as the game progressed, their defense picked up. The Raptors had not won in Charlotte since 2010.
The Hornets only shot 36 percent from the field. The Raptors also beat them up down low, outscoring them 30 to 18 in the paint. Their ability to put it on the floor put a lot of pressure on the Hornets' big men to protect the paint.
The Raptors had a 28-point lead in the third quarter and took 69-45 advantage into the fourth. Overall, this was a good game. It was a team effort, and role players like Tyler Hansbrough and James Johnson got to showcase their efforts. Their hustle on both ends of the court was great.
On Friday, Toronto will take on Orlando and Charlotte will be at Atlanta.