The Toronto Raptors ate up another bitter defeat on Tuesday night after falling short against the Brooklyn Nets in overtime, 131-129. The Raptors couldn't get the job done despite facing a squad missing almost half of its roster due to COVID-19 protocols.
It looked like the Raptors would snatch the victory in regulation but Nets guard Patty Mills spoiled the party by sinking a three-pointer to force the extension.
The Raptors played solid throughout the game, committing only 12 turnovers. But they also had critical miscues, which they can't really afford. Star forward Pascal Siakam said they can't keep shooting themselves in the foot (via ESPN).
Article Continues Below“We know how good of a team we can be when we are clicking and doing what we are supposed to do. Every time we haven't done that this season, we pay for it.”
While Pascal didn't mention names, his comments could be misconstrued as pointing fingers. The former Most Improved Player of the Year had a strong game with 25 points, along with Fred VanVleet, Scottie Barnes, and Gary Trent Jr. all chipping in at least 23 points each. Yet they still couldn't get the W.
It's worth noting that Siakam had an outburst last season due to the Raptors' string of losses and a similar situation might be simmering below the surface.
On one end, Siakam's comments could also fuel the Raptors to be better. They dropped to 13-15 and are in 11th place in the Eastern Conference.
The Raptors will next face the Golden State Warriors on Saturday.