Nuggets – Raptors Preview
By Matt Welch
After seeing their nine-game winning streak come to a close against Boston, the Denver Nuggets (33-19) are looking to start on another streak against the Toronto Raptors (19-32) on the road.
Feb 10, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Denver Nuggets point guard Ty Lawson (3) drives to the hoop against Boston Celtics point guard Avery Bradley (0) during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
The Nuggets are coming off a 118-114 triple overtime loss to the Celtics. Both of Denver’s guards are playing outstanding as of late. Ty Lawson is averaing 19.8 points and 9.2 assists over his last five games, both well above his season average. Danilo Gallinari is averaging 18.4 points and 7 rebounds over his last five games as he’s continuing his strong play. The Nuggets are 3rd in scoring, 1st in rebounding and 2nd in assists at this juncture in the season. They’re clicking on all cylinders and a triple overtime loss to the Celtics is nothing to be ashamed of after winning nine straight.
The Raptors, on the other hand, are a struggling team. Newly acquired small forward Rudy Gay has been a bright spot though since coming over from the Grizzlies. Since being with the Raptors, he’s averaging 23.4 points per game, and 6 rebounds. The Raptors are 3-2 since picking him up. The Raptors will look to get strong play from their bench players and try to keep up with the Nuggets fast-paced offense. Center Andrea Bargnani is still listed as day-to-day after missing Sunday’s game due to flu-like symptoms.
Matchup to Watch: Andre Iguodala vs. Rudy Gay
If Iguodala plays, he’ll be faced with the task of shutting Rudy Gay down. Iguodala is the Nuggets’ defensive specialist on the outside and he’s often faced with the task of guarding the team’s best scorer. If these two go at it, it’ll be a good matchup.
Tipoff is set for 7:30 pm ET (5:30 pm MST) from the Air Canada Centre in Toronto.
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