The Toronto Raptors didn’t make many changes last week with the NBA trade deadline.
But the change they did make seems to be paying off already.
Newcomer Jakob Poeltl racked up 30 points and 9 rebounds in a 123-113 win over the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night.
Jakob Poeltl is the 3rd player in NBA history with 30 points, 85% FG pct and 0 FTA in a game, joining Klay Thompson in 2019 and David Robinson in 1995. pic.twitter.com/wUrEHKWUh1
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) February 15, 2023
That makes Poeltl the third player in NBA history with 30 points, an 85% field goal percentage, and zero free-throw attempts in a game.
He joins just Klay Thompson in 2019 and Davis Robinson in 1995.
This was also the second-most he’s scored in his professional career and came with him going 15-of-17.
The Raptors have had a very troubled season so far so the terrific showing from Poeltl is incredibly welcome and promising too.
The 7-foot-1 center is able to read the floor well, find his teammates with ease, and dominate both ends of the court.
If the team wants to get back on track and have a chance in the playoffs, they will need the expertise and intelligence that Poeltl showed on Tuesday.
In just three games with the Raptors, Poeltl has averaged 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists.
His 83.3% field goal percentage speaks for itself.
All of this is very good news for the Raptors, as they are currently ninth in the East with an even 29-29 record.
Now it is time to see how consistent and strong Poeltl can stay in the weeks ahead.
The team will have some time off because of the All-Star break but then they will be back at it against opponents such as the New Orleans Pelicans, Cleveland Cavaliers, Chicago Bulls, and more.
Will Poeltl continue to tower over the competition?
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