The Toronto Raptors earned a much needed win Friday night, but how did they do it? Obviously, Pascal Siakam's 32 points and Gary Trent Jr.'s 23 points were a huge offensive factor. But Raptors point guard Fred VanVleet says that the bench sealed the win against the Sacramento Kings.
Raptors beat reporter Josh Lewenberg tweeted a quote from VanVleet's postgame interview.
“They really won us that game and changed the momentum of the game, and that's what good benches do,” VanVleet said.
Fred VanVleet on the Raptors bench: "They really won us that game (tonight) and changed the momentum of the game, and that's what good benches do… The only thing I'm mad about is that I had to go back in the game in the 4th quarter." 😂
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) November 20, 2021
While you could watch the physical momentum shift play out, it is just as obvious in the game stats. Power forward Chris Boucher dominated in the rebound department with 12 total, also recording 10 points. Small forward Svi Mykhailiuk added to the win with eight points and two rebounds of his own. Another star off the bench was Precious Achiuwa, who recorded six points and five boards.
This 100% team earned win came at a great time for the Toronto Raptors. The team was previously on a three game losing streak, snapped with their dominating 108-89 win. They are entering the second half of a long six game road trip.
Hopefully, this win and the energy of the Raptors bench will be enough momentum to give them a fighting chance against their intimidating upcoming opponent. The 8-9 Toronto team now looks to stand their ground against the Golden State Warriors and their impressive 14-2 record.
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