In a decisive victory at the Barclays Center on March 26, 2025, the Toronto Raptors defeated the Brooklyn Nets 116-86, marking a significant moment in their ongoing quest for a better draft position. The Raptors, now with a record of 26-47, showcased their determination and skill against a Nets team that has struggled significantly, losing five straight games and seven of their last eight.
The game began with the Raptors establishing a quick lead, jumping ahead 15-6 early on. By the end of the first quarter, they had extended their advantage to 32-18, with Orlando Robinson leading the charge, scoring 10 points in the opening period. Robinson finished the game with an impressive 23 points, shooting 10-of-14 from the field, along with 12 rebounds. His performance was pivotal in setting the tone for the Raptors, who played with a sense of urgency and cohesion that has sometimes eluded them this season.
Rookie Jamal Shead started at point guard, continuing to impress with his consistent scoring, while fellow rookie Jonathan Mogbo contributed significantly, scoring 12 points in just 11 minutes during the first half. The Raptors maintained a solid lead at halftime, 62-45, demonstrating a marked improvement in their defensive intensity compared to previous outings. This game was particularly crucial as the Raptors look to improve their lottery odds, aiming for a higher draft pick in the upcoming NBA draft.
As the Raptors continue to navigate the end of the season, their focus remains on the lottery, where they are currently projected to have the seventh-best odds. This position gives them a 7.5% chance of landing the coveted first overall pick, which is expected to be claimed by Duke's Cooper Flagg, a highly touted prospect. Meanwhile, their chances of securing a top-four selection stand at 31.9%.
Despite the victory, the Raptors' management is aware of the delicate balance between winning and improving their draft position. With nine games remaining in the regular season, including a rematch against the Nets on April 6, the Raptors will likely continue to evaluate their roster and strategy carefully. They have already opted to rest key players like Jakob Poeltl and Immanuel Quickley in this matchup against Brooklyn, a decision that reflects their commitment to a strategic tanking approach.
The Nets, on the other hand, are facing a challenging period. With a record of just 2-15 over their last 17 games, they find themselves struggling to maintain competitiveness. Nic Claxton led the Nets in scoring against the Raptors with 22 points and 11 rebounds, but the team as a whole has been unable to find a rhythm, ranking 26th in offensive rating since the All-Star break, averaging a mere 99.8 points per game in their last four outings.
As the Raptors prepare for their next matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, they will need to build on this momentum. The Hornets, like the Nets, have struggled this season, and a win could further solidify the Raptors’ mid-lottery position. However, Toronto’s recent victories have raised questions about whether they might inadvertently jeopardize their draft positioning.
Looking ahead, the Raptors' future could hinge on the upcoming draft lottery. The implications of their current standings could dictate their long-term strategy, especially with the potential addition of a player like Flagg or other top prospects. The team’s performance in the remaining games will be closely watched, as fans and analysts alike speculate on the best path forward.
In the wake of the victory, Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic expressed pride in his team's effort, highlighting the importance of maintaining a competitive spirit even in a rebuilding phase. "We want to play hard and set a standard for the future," Rajakovic commented post-game. "Every game is an opportunity to grow and learn, and tonight was a great example of that."
As for the Nets, they will need to regroup quickly, facing the Los Angeles Clippers next. With their playoff hopes dwindling, they must find a way to turn their season around before it's too late. The upcoming games will be critical for both teams as they navigate the final stretch of the season, balancing the desire to win with the realities of their respective situations.
Fans of both teams will undoubtedly be eager to see how the remainder of the season unfolds, with the Raptors aiming to make the most of their remaining games while keeping an eye on the future. As the draft lottery approaches, the stakes continue to rise, making every game a significant one for both franchises.
