Raptors Seek Home Glory, End Lakers' Dominance in Toronto

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The Toronto Raptors are looking to extend their home winning streak to nine games on Thursday night, while also trying to snap a five-game skid against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Raptors last triumphed against the Lakers in December 2022, earning a 126-113 victory. However, they will face a Lakers team without star Luka Doncic, who is traveling to Slovenia for the birth of his second child. The Lakers, who had their seven-game winning streak halted by the Phoenix Suns on Monday, will be without Doncic. The team committed 21 turnovers, leading to 32 points for Phoenix in their 125-108 loss. The Raptors, on the other hand, have been dealing with their own struggles, losing their last two games to the New York Knicks and Charlotte Hornets. In their 121-118 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday, the Raptors were led by Scottie Barnes, who scored 28 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out seven assists. Barnes' defensive prowess was on display when he blocked a Deni Avdija floater shot in the final seconds to seal the win. The Raptors' 43-39 advantage in live-ball rebounds, including a 10-9 edge on the offensive boards, was a key factor in their victory. Reserve Jamal Shead provided a spark in the first half with his five steals, helping to energize the team. Meanwhile, the Lakers will open a stretch of three road games in four nights, with LeBron James saying that the road trip will help refocus the team. However, the Lakers will need to regroup without Doncic, who had 38 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists in their last game, but also committed a career-high-tying nine turnovers.