Brandon Ingram Hits Season-High 38 Points as Raptors Edge Closer to Playoffs
The Toronto Raptors are firmly in the playoff hunt after a dominant 128-114 victory over the Miami Heat on Thursday night. Leading the charge was forward Brandon Ingram, who delivered a masterclass in scoring, netting a season-high 38 points to propel Toronto into fifth place in the Eastern Conference.
A “Hooper’s Hooper” Puts on a Clinic
Brandon Ingram’s performance was a display of offensive versatility and precision. Finishing the night with 38 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, Ingram shot 13-of-23 from the field and was nearly perfect from the stripe, going 10-of-11 on free throws. He set the tone early, scoring 23 of his points in the first half alone.
Raptors GM Bobby Webster previously described Ingram as a “hooper’s hooper,” and that reputation was on full display. Ingram spent the evening hitting difficult, contested mid-range jumpers, with eight of his 13 made field goals coming from the mid-range. The highlight of the night came when Ingram isolated on Pelle Larsson, backed him down, and sank a signature turnaround jumper to reach the 38-point mark.
Rewriting the Raptors Record Books
Beyond the win, the night was historic for Ingram. The 38-point outing wasn’t just a season-high; it stands as the highest point total Ingram has ever recorded in a Raptors jersey. Ingram has now set a novel franchise record for the most points scored by a player during their first season with the Toronto Raptors.
This performance marks Ingram’s 12th 30-point game of the year, placing him just one shy of his career-high of 13 such games set during the 2022-23 season. Since being traded to Toronto from the New Orleans Pelicans, Ingram has become a cornerstone of the offense, averaging 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists across 75 games while shooting 47.4% from the field.
Playoff Implications and the Road Ahead
The victory is a pivotal moment for the Raptors as they attempt to secure their first playoff berth in four years. By jumping into fifth place in the Eastern Conference, Toronto has created a significant buffer between themselves and the play-in tournament.
“We know it’s crunch time,” Ingram told Sportsnet’s Danielle Michaud following the game. He added, “It’s a good time to be in rhythm, going into these playoffs.”
The Raptors have no time to linger on the win. They face a critical matchup against the New York Knicks on Friday before closing out their regular season at home against the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday.
Key Takeaways: Raptors vs. Heat
- Score: Toronto Raptors 128, Miami Heat 114.
- Ingram’s Stat Line: 38 points (season-high), 7 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal.
- Efficiency: 13-of-23 FG, 2-of-3 3PT, 10-of-11 FT.
- Franchise Milestone: Most points by a player in their first season with the Raptors.
- Standings: Toronto moves into 5th place in the Eastern Conference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Brandon Ingram’s current season average?
Ingram is averaging 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game through 75 contests.
How many 30-point games has Ingram had this season?
Ingram has recorded 12 games with 30 or more points this season.
Who do the Raptors play next?
The Raptors play the New York Knicks on Friday and the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday.