In a thrilling overtime match, the Toronto Raptors, led by Mississauga’s own RJ Barrett, managed to stave off the Sacramento Kings with a score of 131-128 on Saturday night. Barrett contributed an impressive 31 points, falling just one rebound short of a double-double.

Raptors’ forwards Ochai Agbaji and Gradey Dick both scored 22 points, each adding five rebounds and two assists. However, despite their efforts, the Raptors (2-5) nearly lost their 13-point advantage. Off the bench, Montreal’s Chris Boucher performed exceptionally, contributing 24 points, his highest since the 2020-21 season.

On the Kings’ side, De’Aaron Fox led with 24 points, 14 of which were scored in the fourth quarter, aiding Sacramento (3-3) in their late rally. Domantas Sabonis achieved a triple-double with 17 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Keegan Murray managed a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds before fouling out.

Former Raptor DeMar DeRozan outscored all players with 33 points. The Raptors now face a challenge in Denver against the reigning NBA MVP Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets on Monday, while the Kings continue their East Coast tour with a game against the Miami Heat.

This article was initially published by The Canadian Press on Nov. 2, 2024.