Raptors Hold Off Pelicans, 122-118

The Toronto Raptors defeated the New Orleans Pelicans, 122-118, at Air Canada
Center on Thursday. This was one of the most competitive games of the season, as
there were 22 lead changes in total. In addition, there were 11 ties, as neither
team ever led by more than 10 points. Rebounding was key for the Raptors, as
they outrebounded the Pelicans, 48-38. Toronto won the shooting differential
too, hitting 54 percent of their shots, while holding New Orleans to just 46
percent from the field. The Pelicans (6-6) got a season-high 34 points out of
Jrue Holiday, who also provided five rebounds and 11 assists on 14-of-20 from
the field. DeMarcus Cousins amassed 20 points, 15 rebounds and five assists,
despite committing seven turnovers. Anthony Davis finished with 18 points, seven
rebounds, two steals and two blocks. The Raptors (7-4) were led by DeMar
DeRozan, as he accumulated 33 points, two rebounds and eight assists. Serge
Ibaka collected 19 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Kyle
Lowry was the only other starter in double figures, totaling 18 points, six
rebounds and seven assists. On deck for New Orleans is a home matchup against
the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday. Toronto will travel to face the Boston
Celtics for their next fixture on Sunday.