Raptors’ undefeated run ends in loss to Magic
Orlando Magic forward Tobias Harris (12) attempts a shot around Toronto Raptors forward DeMarre Carroll (5) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Nov. 6, 2015, in Orlando, Fla. AP
ORLANDO, Fla. — Tobias Harris had 20 points, including what turned out to be the decisive free throw, and the Orlando Magic handed the Toronto Raptors their first loss of the season, 92-87 on Friday night.
Victor Oladipo added 18 points, and reserve C.J. Watson had 12 as the Magic snapped an 11-game losing streak to the Raptors.
Article continues after this advertisementTrailing 88-86 after Harris’ free throw, Toronto had a chance to take the lead but Jonas Valanciunas was forced to put up an awkward runner that rolled off the rim, and was rebounded by Orlando.
The loss ended what had been a franchise-best 5-0 start for Toronto.
DeMar DeRozan led the Raptors with 23 points and Kyle Lowry added 17.
Article continues after this advertisementToronto struggled shooting the ball all game, finishing 30 of 86 from the field.
The Magic played without starting center Nik Vucevic, who sat with a bone bruise in his right knee.
The Raptors entered the game with the Eastern Conference’s top scoring offense, but shot 23 percent (10 of 43) from the field in the first half.
But they were able to erase what had been a nine-point halftime deficit just 1:36 into the third quarter.
Toronto hit eight of their first 10 shots during a 19-4 run to start the third, taking a 55-49 lead on a three-point play by Lowry.
The Magic started the quarter 2 for 6 from the field with three turnovers, prompting coach Scott Skiles to pull all five starters.
The move worked, with the reserves keeping Orlando within striking distance heading into the fourth quarter.
TIP-INS: The Raptors had 18 second-chance points. … Toronto was 5 for 23 from 3-point range. … Orlando’s Dewayne Dedmon had three first-half blocks. …The Magic had three defensive 3-seconds calls against them in the first half.
UP NEXT
Raptors: Conclude four-game trip at Miami on Sunday.
Magic: Visit Philadelphia on Saturday.
