MISSISAUGA, Ontario — For the second season in a row, Raptors 905 have defeated Grand Rapids in round one of the NBA G League Playoffs, earning a 91-90 overtime victory.
Chris Boucher recorded the first point-rebound-block triple-double in NBA G League playoff history, recording 12 points, 12 rebounds and 10 blocks. Jordan Loyd spearheaded the 905 offense with a monster 18-point, 15-rebound double-double and Wade Baldwin IV returned from injury to add 17 points and six board in the victory.
The Drive were led by their backcourt of Kalin Lucas and Marcus Thornton, both posting 20 points in the losing effort. Grand Rapids also received double-doubles from Todd Withers, scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds and Johnny Hamilton who chipped in 12 points and 11 rebounds.
Raptors 905 struggled to start the game, shooting .167 from the field in the opening quarter, leading to an early 25-12 advantage for the visitors. The team would rebound in the second and third quarter to take a three point lead into the final frame. In the final period, Grand Rapids would fight back, led by Thornton’s 11 fourth quarter points, to tie the game and force overtime. After exchanging baskets, and the lead, Loyd would tip back the decisive basket with 11.5 seconds left to give the home team the victory.
Raptors 905 now travels to Long Island for the Eastern Conference semifinal meeting with the Nets Friday, March 29 at 7 p.m.