The Toronto Raptors deployed a surprising starting lineup against the San Antonio Spurs, opting for rookie Collin Murray-Boyles at center over veteran Jakob Poeltl. The strategy aimed to disrupt Spurs' standout Victor Wembanyama.
Coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized physicality against Wembanyama. "Our focus was to be physical with them in general, particularly Wemby," said Poeltl. "We know when he finds his rhythm and can play free, he’s a really good basketball player."
The tactic limited Wembanyama to 12 points, though the Raptors ultimately fell to the Spurs 110-107. Poeltl contributed 15 points and seven rebounds.
Despite a strong effort against top competition, this loss marked Toronto's second consecutive defeat. The team has struggled with maintaining leads, losing multiple games after holding double-digit advantages.
Guard Immanuel Quickley noted the value of facing such physicality. "This is good for me and for the rest of our team, just being able to get a taste of that experience of teams that are being really physical, especially the good teams."