Toronto’s first-year forward Collin Murray-Boyles delivered a historic performance in Monday’s victory over Atlanta, registering 17 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, three steals and two blocks. According to SportsNet, he is the first rookie to post that combination since 1991 and only the fourth NBA player to reach it in the past decade.
“We’re constantly learning about Collin,” head coach Darko Rajaković said. “The opportunity he’s taking on right now, he’s doing impressive things for us.”
Appearing in just 19.2 minutes per night, Murray-Boyles has earned praise for hustle plays such as chasing loose balls, crashing the offensive glass and jumping passing lanes. “Everybody’s finding their niche,” the rookie said of his draft class. “We’re proud of what we’ve done so far.”
Sandro Mamukelashvili’s breakout
Forward Sandro Mamukelashvili, selected late in the second round in 2021, is enjoying a career-best season during his first year with Toronto. “It’s not like you have a lot of chances to make a mistake,” he said, recalling the pressure of beginning his career on a two-way contract. “If they like somebody else, you’re the first one gone.”
Injury update
Brandon Ingram exited Wednesday’s game in Charlotte with a sprained right thumb, but X-rays were negative, per TSN Sports.
Cap implications
Tuesday’s decision to waive veteran center Mo Bamba left the Raptors $967,000 above the luxury-tax line and $717,000 below the first apron, ESPN reports. The club is not operating under a hard cap.
Trade consideration
In a roster breakdown by The Athletic, guard-forward Scottie Barnes is the lone player listed as virtually untouchable ahead of the trade deadline.
Source: Hoops Rumors
