TORONTO — The Toronto Raptors, led by Pascal Siakam’s 27 points and Gary Trent Jr.’s season-high 22 points and first career double-double, overcame the Charlotte Hornets 114-99 on Monday night. The Raptors’ fourth-quarter surge was instrumental in their victory over a Hornets team missing several key players, including Miles Bridges.
Bridges, who was unable to enter Canada due to past legal issues, was notably missed by the Hornets. Charlotte’s center Nick Richards acknowledged Bridges’ significant impact on the team’s scoring, rebounding, and defense. Hornets coach Steve Clifford, however, did not comment on Bridges’ absence.
The Hornets were already without starters LaMelo Ball, Gordon Hayward, and Mark Williams due to injuries, as well as key reserve Cody Martin. Despite these setbacks, Toronto’s Scottie Barnes made a substantial contribution with 22 points, matching his career-high with 17 rebounds. Dennis Schroder and Precious Achiuwa also added 13 and 12 points, respectively.
Trent’s eight points in the final quarter were crucial as the Raptors outscored the Hornets 35-18. Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic praised Trent’s shooting and impact on the game. On the Hornets’ side, Terry Rozier led with 22 points, and P.J. Washington Jr. added 15. Despite efforts from Bryce McGowens and Brandon Miller, who each scored 14 points, the Hornets struggled to overcome the absence of key players, suffering their fifth straight loss.
Charlotte managed to score 23 points off 19 Toronto turnovers but couldn’t maintain their momentum. Washington and Rozier, who both returned after injuries, started the game but couldn’t steer the team to victory.
Miles Bridges’ absence was a significant talking point, given his ongoing legal issues and recent probation for a domestic violence case. Bridges has been impactful since returning from suspension, averaging 19.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in 12 starts.
The Raptors faced their own challenges with turnovers in the first quarter but managed to close the gap by the end of the third quarter, thanks to Siakam’s 10 points in the period.
Toronto also had a notable presence in former Raptors coach Dwane Casey, who attended the game. The Raptors’ resilience was on full display as they rallied in the second half to secure the win.
Looking ahead, the Hornets will face Indiana on Wednesday night, while the Raptors host Denver on the same evening.
