Post Game: Sixers 84 Raptors 79 @ the ACC Oct 7th '09

Another preseason game in the books, the Raptors finishing a back to back series with the 76ers. They looked much better tonight but still have a ways to go both on offense and defense. Let's look at the good and the bad.

Positives:

-the defense held the Sixers to 49 first half points instead of 69 in their previous affair

-a solid offensive effort from Belinelli and Weems. Both players had 12points each and could see a lot of playing time if they can keep up a high scoring average

-they contained Louis Williams much better and held him to 8points 1assist

-another energetic night for Reggie Evans with 9points and 9rebounds

-turnovers were a lot less with 17

Negatives:

-they may have held Philadelphia to shooting 37% from the field but they shot a weak 39.5% themselves

-the Raptors rarely got to the line and when they did only shot 14 of 23 just over 60%

-the offensive sets were very sloppy which is understandable considering this is only the second game the new group have played

-Bargnani had a quiet game and retrieved a mere 2rebounds

Why not look at this game with the glass half full attitude? They contained their players much better on defense and kept the transition points to a minimum.

Reggie Evans will be the team power booster with his ambitious defensive energy. The man does not quit and has a strong instinct. Unfortunately he was a little too eager on offense. Now, I wasn't too familiar with his offensive game while he was on the Sixers but I've read it is non-existent. Tonight's offensive presence might have had to do with the fact that he was trying to get the team going when no player had the shooting touch . This was a rough game for the offensive minded fan with few sparks whatsoever.

DeRozan played a strong game on D and is showing the fans that he is an upgrade to what we've had at the wing position in seasons past. I quite enjoyed seeing him driving to the rim with no fear, something we had not seen consistently at the 2/3 spot. He again stayed at around the 28min mark and played with poise.

I thought Belinelli had a stronger game. I noticed his transition game was well rounded and he will be able to run with this team on the fast break. With a 12point performance it would be more than beneficial to have him scoring in the double digits on average. Another reason this team failed last year was the fact that no one was there to step up if Bosh or Bargnani were having a bad game. If he fills that role and becomes our insurance scorer it will bode well during close games.

What can we say about Sonny Weems? He has shown his talent in these two games. Being the last acquisition in a busy off season has kept him under the radar. He was the comedic relief for training camp and has been the most surprising player so far. If he continues on this path it will be easy for Triano to get him his minutes in regular season action.

Next game is against Minnesota on Friday. Check back for the pregame post.

Great quote from Grange at the G & M:
He’s wearing No. 72 this year. Why? “It’s a rare number and I’m a rare dude.”
-Jason Kapono

Cool Hand Luke