TORONTO - Canadian Chris Boucher came off the bench to score 23 points and grab 10 rebounds, leading the Toronto Raptors to a 127-109 National Basketball Association victory against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.
Boucher's performance, along with strong contributions from Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett, helped the Raptors halt their two-game losing streak at the Scotiabank Arena. The Raptors' bench outscored the Suns' reserves 42-18, with Boucher breaking out for 14 points alone during the second quarter.
"Chris, as I’ve said many times this year, he’s the ultimate professional," stated Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic. "I think he’s done a really good job." Boucher's rapid ascent is particularly notable as he is set to become a free agent at season's end.
The Raptors took the early lead, ending the first quarter at 29-25 and continuing their momentum to finish the first half with a commanding 67-52 lead. Boucher's second-quarter display was key, as he netted multiple three-pointers, demonstrating his value on the court during Jakob Poeltl's absence due to injury.
Despite Toronto's strong performance, the Suns made it interesting late in the game. Phoenix's Devin Booker led all scorers with 31 points, flanked by his teammate Bradley Beal, who added 30 points, and Kevin Durant, who scored 15. The Suns pushed back late, narrowing the Raptors’ lead to just two points with 5:02 remaining.
Toronto maintained their poise, particularly through Quickley and Barrett, who caught fire beyond the arc. They combined to shoot 8-for-8 on three-point attempts during the fourth quarter, propelling the Raptors to solidify their lead.
"Thank god I’m healthy," Quickley expressed post-game, reflecting on his recent return from injury. He finished with 23 points and eight assists, illustrating his importance to the squad.
A key moment came when Boucher secured his own rebound on a miss and was fouled on the follow-up, successfully converting the ensuing free throw to stretch the lead to 105-93 with 7:39 on the clock.
The Raptors' shooting was on full display throughout the match; they managed 20 three-pointers throughout the game, just one shy of their season high. Barrett's three consecutive three-pointers late in the game were instrumental, lifting the team’s spirits as they surged to victory.
Despite the loss, the Suns did show flashes of potential, with their offensive movement sometimes getting bogged down but managing to challenge the Raptors at intervals. Phoenix had hoped for smoother movement on offense but found themselves trailing by significant margins several times throughout the game.
With the victory, the Raptors improved their record to 18-39. They will be hosting the Boston Celtics next, hoping to capitalize on the momentum created from the win against the Suns. Meanwhile, the struggling Suns fell to 27-30, facing yet another difficult loss as they prepare to visit the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday.
Toronto's head coach alluded to the importance of learning from each game, especially as the season progresses. With Boucher stepping up when it matters most and other players finding their rhythm, the Raptors may be poised for brighter days ahead this season.