The Toronto Raptors seemingly found a gem with their recent acquisition of swingman Gary Trent Jr. ahead of the trade deadline. On Monday night against the Washington Wizards, the 22-year-old guard hit a game-winner at the buzzer.
Trent's clutch shot also landed him in the record books as he became the youngest player in Raptors history to drain a game-winning bucket at the buzzer. Trent surpassed Raptors great Vince Carter's previous record of 23 years old and 35 days, which stood for over 21 years.
Here's the list:
Gary Trent Jr. is the youngest player in Raptors history to hit a buzzer-beating game-winning shot.
Trent Jr. (22y, 78d) vs WAS, 2021.
Carter (23y, 35d) vs BOS, 2000.
Carter (23y, 42d) vs LAC, 2000.
Anunoby (23y, 48d) vs BOS (playoffs), 2020.
Ford (23y, 271d) vs LAC, 2006.— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) April 6, 2021
On the floor, the Wizards found themselves leading until the third quarter of the game before the Raptors unleashed a 28-point outburst in the final frame. The contest went down to the wire as Trent's last-gasp 3-point basket became the ultimate decider between the two teams.
Trent finished the game with 16 points, two rebounds, and two assists en route to a 103-101 victory for the Raptors. The Toronto-based squad extended its winning streak to two games to get to a 20-30 record for the 11th spot in the Eastern Conference.
The former Duke standout has emerged as a vital contributor for a Raptors team trying to salvage a disastrous season. He is averaging 16.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists through 32.3 minutes played in six appearances with the team.
After successfully showing his capabilities on the floor, Gary Trent Jr. is expected to carry a heavier scoring load for the team in the coming games. Hopefully, he can contribute more as the Raptors continue their attempt to turn things around in an attempt to make the playoffs this season.
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