Raptors Try to Keep Stacking Wins, Host Pelicans
The Toronto Raptors are on a roll, riding a season-best three-game winning streak as they welcome the New Orleans Pelicans to Scotiabank Arena on Monday night. With a renewed defensive intensity and momentum on their side, Toronto aims to continue its strong run against a Pelicans team seeking consistency.
Raptors Riding High After Road Success
Toronto’s confidence is soaring after back-to-back wins over the Atlanta Hawks, capped by a 117-94 victory on Saturday. The Raptors have won five of their last six games, turning things around after a five-game losing streak. Head coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized the team’s defensive effort as the cornerstone of their recent success.
“Great win, our guys were able to sustain their intensity at the defensive end,” Rajakovic said. “Proud of our defensive effort. Still think we can add another layer discipline-wise and execution-wise to be better.”
The Raptors have been aggressive defensively, forcing turnovers at a high rate. Against Atlanta, they forced Trae Young into a season-high 11 turnovers and limited him to 16 points and four assists. Scottie Barnes led the charge with an all-around performance, recording 24 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists, two blocks, and two steals.
Despite the positives, Toronto remains concerned about turnovers. The Raptors committed 21 turnovers on Saturday, leading to 17 points for Atlanta. Rajakovic acknowledged the need to address this issue to maintain their winning form.
Pelicans Searching for Answers
The New Orleans Pelicans are coming off a disappointing 123-92 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday, their second consecutive defeat. Head coach Willie Green was blunt about the team’s struggles, stating, “We didn’t bring it, we didn’t have it. No excuses, they kicked our butts.”
Zion Williamson has been a bright spot for the Pelicans. In his fifth game back from a hamstring injury, Williamson tallied 28 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing his ability to attack the basket and dominate inside. However, New Orleans struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 25.8% on 3-pointers, and managed only 38.1% overall from the field.

The Pelicans were shorthanded without guard Dejounte Murray, who is sidelined with a sprained index finger and elbow bursitis. In his absence, Jordan Hawkins and Trey Murphy III stepped up with 14 and 16 points, respectively, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Charlotte’s dominance.
Green highlighted the need for his team to play with greater force and mental toughness, especially during challenging moments. “It starts with our ability to play with force and be mentally tough during difficult circumstances,” Green said.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Scottie Barnes vs. Zion Williamson: Barnes’ versatility on both ends of the court will be critical in containing Williamson, who is finding his rhythm post-injury.
- Turnover Battle: Both teams have struggled with turnovers recently. Toronto’s ability to force mistakes could tilt the game in their favor.
- Toronto’s Depth vs. Pelicans’ Rotation: With injuries affecting both squads, bench contributions could play a decisive role.
Raptors Hold Momentum, but Pelicans Have Firepower
In their previous meeting this season, Toronto defeated New Orleans 119-93, with Scottie Barnes and Jamison Battle each scoring 24 points. CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 19 points in that game. Toronto’s strong defense and balanced scoring have been key to their success, but the Pelicans will lean on Williamson’s inside presence to challenge the Raptors’ interior.
With both teams eager to solidify their standings, Monday’s matchup promises to be a battle of contrasting styles. Can the Raptors extend their streak with another defensive masterclass, or will the Pelicans bounce back and rediscover their form?