The Toronto Raptors were routed 111-86 by the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night, their fourth defeat in the last five outings. Head coach Darko Rajakovic said the demanding stretch — five games in seven nights — left his team drained.
“Physically, we were worn down,” Rajakovic told reporters. “I’m really proud of our guys tonight. We tried. But when you’re trying and you’re missing layups and wide-open shots, it’s hard to keep it up. We didn’t quit. We continued fighting but we didn’t have enough in the tank.”
Barnes Drawing Early Defensive Honors
Rajakovic added that third-year forward Scottie Barnes belongs in the league’s Defensive Player of the Year conversation. “He’s guarding point guards, wings, fives. He’s doing it all,” the coach said, noting Barnes was recently voted Defensive Player of the Month. “He needs to be in consideration for Defensive Player of the Year. Obviously it’s early in the season but he’s trending that way.”
Ingram Rejects Load Management
Brandon Ingram, who has battled several long-term injuries during his career, said he intends to suit up whenever healthy. The 26-year-old forward has played in all 24 of Toronto’s games this season, averaging 20.8 points, 5.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists in 33.8 minutes per contest.
“It’s intentional to not miss games because I have no reason to,” Ingram explained. “If I hear from the training staff and they tell me my body doesn’t look good, I’ll listen. But so far, my body’s been feeling good. I’m doing everything in my control to be ready for games.”
Battle Day-to-Day With Ankle Sprain
Rookie forward Jamison Battle exited Friday’s loss after spraining his left ankle. X-rays were negative, and the team lists him as day-to-day.
Source: HoopsRumors
