Clippers win over Raptors with Powell and Leonard

Norman Powell and Kawhi Leonard, former Toronto Raptors players, returned to Scotiabank Arena Tuesday to lead the Los Angeles Clippers in a 124-113 win.

Leonard has not forgotten Toronto’s harsh winters. In fact, he was wearing a glamorous parka as he walked into his old neighbourhood in Los Angeles three years ago.

They caught up with their former teammates, as well as members of the Raptors’ staff before tip-off. Fans were treated to a lot of fun content via social media.

Leonard was given a warm, but more subdued welcome. first time back in Toronto) when his name was announced during the introduction of the Clippers’ starting lineup.

Powell was, however, welcomed back by the Raptors faithful in a touching tribute video and loud applause as the crowd celebrated the return of the guard to Toronto following his trade to the Portland Trail Blazers, March 2021.

Powell scored 22 points from the bench on Tuesday to help the Clippers beat his former club. Leonard was less confident, scoring just 15 points and dishing out eight assists, while grabbing seven rebounds. Paul George, a superstar teammate, carried Los Angeles’ scoring load with 23 points. He also made five three-pointers. Center Ivica Zubac was the dominant player in the paint with 23 and 16 points.

Pascal Siakam again led the Raptors’ scoring with 36 points. The Raptors shot 13-for-24 from the floor and converted 10 free throws. Gary Trent Jr. scored 20 points off the bench, while Scottie Barnes impressed with 17 points and 13 rebounds, as well as eight assists, in just 35 minutes. Fred VanVleet was unable to score, scoring only four points on 2-for-6 field shooting.

The Raptors failed to shoot from deep as has been the case throughout the season. They were able to knock down six of 23 attempts. This is an area where the Clippers excelled.

Toronto will be looking to bounce back on Thursday when they host the Memphis Grizzlies.

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