Toronto Raptors: DeMar DeRozan Fast Break Score Highlights Win (Video)

DeMar DeRozan highlights 30-point performance for the Toronto Raptors, with an impressive fast break slam dunk against the Atlanta Hawks.

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The Toronto Raptors overcame their recent defensive struggles, with a fine performance against the Atlanta Hawks. When you can hold one of the top teams in the East to 96 points, you’re doing something right.

This included limiting Paul Millsap and Al Horford to a combined 32 points (and nine boards). Certainly, containing the two All-Stars was a significant factor in a fully-deserved win for Dwane Casey’s men.

However, the Raptors also deserve a lot of credit for what they did at the other end of the court. Keep in mind the Hawks are sixth in the NBA for average points allowed per game and second overall for defensive efficiency.

In that respect, it’s hard not to be impressed by Toronto managing to drop 104 on their opponents. There were contributions from the usual suspects, with Kyle Lowry scoring 19 and adding seven dimes, while Jonas Valanciunas came up with his third double-double in the last four games (and 16th of the season).

However, it was DeMar DeRozan who led the way, with a game-high 30 points. He also provided the highlight of the night, with this one-man fast break near the end of the first half:

DeRozan’s ability to explode to the rim in a one-on-four situation, was a thing of beauty. It’s moments like that when you realise the front office has to do everything possible to ensure he remains in a Raptors jersey past this season.

With the victory over the Hawks, Toronto remains well on course for their best regular season ever, in terms of wins and seeding. Obviously this doesn’t mean much if they once again get knocked out in the first round, but they may never be better-placed to turn around their recent woes in the playoffs.

Next: Raptors all-time starting five

What impressed you most about the Raptors win over the Hawks? Are you feeling confident about their chances of turning around their fortunes once the playoffs begin? Let us know in the comments section below.

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