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Fred VanVleet continues dominant run as healthy Raptors defeat Knicks

By Justin Gincauskas

Jan 2, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet (23) dribbles the ball past New York Knicks guard Immanuel Quickley (5) in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet (23) dribbles the ball past New York Knicks guard Immanuel Quickley (5) in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /
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Fred VanVleet went off on Sunday afternoon scoring 35 points in just 31 minutes as the Toronto Raptors took down the New York Knicks 120-105.

The Toronto Raptors were ready to play from the beginning, going on a 17-6 run to start the game, capped off by a VanVleet three-pointer. The momentum would continue in the second quarter as both VanVleet and OG Anunoby were up to double figures in scoring as the Raptors took an 11-point lead into halftime.

The Knicks tried to stay in it to begin the third quarter, closing the gap to nine points, but that was as close as they would get, as the Raptors pulled away and cruised to a 15-point victory.

Fred VanVleet has been on a tear since coming off of COVID-19 protocols, scoring more than 30 points in back-to-back games. His 35 points on Sunday is a season-high for the Raptors star, as he shot 11 for 17 from the field which included seven three-pointers. VanVleet also tallied five rebounds and five assists.

Deeper lineup combines to lead Toronto Raptors over New York Knicks

Pascal Siakam was another key factor for the Raptors, falling just three assists shy of a triple-double, which included 20 points and 14 boards. Scottie Barnes also had himself a game, as he was a team-best plus 19 when on the floor while also pitching in 13 points.

Chris Boucher was the best bench player for Toronto on Sunday, stuffing the stat sheet with 12 points, four rebounds, two steals, and two blocks in just 21 minutes of action. Boucher has now scored in double figures in four of his last five games.

With the win, the Raptors now jump ahead of the New York Knicks in the standings, and currently sit as the 9th seed in the Eastern Conference. Toronto will be back in action at home on January 4th, as they host the San Antonio Spurs. The tip-off for that game will be at 7 p.m. EST.

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What were your thoughts on VanVleet’s performance? Can this lineup stay healthy enough to put the team in a playoff position? Let us know in the comments below. 

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