Defensive-Minded Raptors Aim for Sixth Straight Win vs. Bulls

The Toronto Raptors (25-22) will look to extend their season-best winning streak to six games when they host the Chicago Bulls (29-19) on Friday night. The Raptors have won seven of their last eight and are building momentum as a defensive force in the Eastern Conference playoff chase.

Toronto’s latest victory was a 106-82 rout of the Washington Wizards, marking the first time since March-April 2022 that the Raptors have won five straight.

Raptors Finding Their Identity on Defense

The Raptors’ defense was suffocating against Washington, forcing 27 turnovers and converting them into 32 points. They held the Wizards to just 38.9% shooting from the field and a dismal 16.7% from three.

Coach Darko Rajakovic praised the team’s intensity on defense, emphasizing their commitment to winning habits:

“We kept the foot on the gas the whole game. We are trying to develop winning habits and the right culture.”

Toronto’s Jakob Poeltl has been a key defensive anchor, providing elite rim protection and communication. His presence has helped the Raptors evolve into one of the NBA’s toughest defensive squads.

“He’s our connector on the offensive end and does an unbelievable job for us,” Rajakovic said.

Bulls Looking to Rebound After Celtics Blowout

Chicago is coming off a 122-100 road loss to the Boston Celtics, where they struggled with turnovers (15 giveaways leading to 27 points).

The Bulls are without Zach LaVine (paternity leave), who is expected to miss at least two more games. Coby White (16 points) and Patrick Williams (16 points) tried to step up in LaVine’s absence but couldn’t keep up with the Celtics’ firepower.

“Against good teams, you have to control what you can control,” White said.

Key Matchup: Raptors’ Defense vs. Bulls’ Offense

• Toronto has forced 20+ turnovers in three of their last five games.
• Chicago struggled against Boston’s aggressive defense, coughing up costly turnovers.
• Poeltl’s rim protection vs. Vucevic’s inside scoring could determine the game’s outcome.

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Revenge Factor: Raptors Seek Payback

Toronto is looking to avenge their 122-121 home loss to the Bulls on Dec. 16, when Nikola Vucevic led Chicago with 24 points. With the Raptors gaining ground in the play-in race, this game could have major playoff implications.

Injury Report:

• Raptors: Immanuel Quickley (hip) & Kelly Olynyk (calf) – questionable
• Bulls: Zach LaVine (paternity leave) – out

Game Outlook

The Raptors’ defensive resurgence gives them an edge at home, especially against a shorthanded Bulls team missing one of their top scorers.