Toronto Raptors Return to Playoffs in 2022: A Look Back at Their Eastern Conference First Round Matchup
The Toronto Raptors returned to the NBA Playoffs in 2022 for the first time since their championship run in 2019, facing the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference First Round. The series, which began on April 16, 2022, featured hard-fought games and standout individual performances from both teams.
Series Overview and Game Results
The Raptors and 76ers played a six-game series, with Philadelphia advancing after winning four games to Toronto’s two. The matchup highlighted the strengths of both rosters, particularly the dominance of Joel Embiid for Philadelphia and the scoring contributions of Pascal Siakam for Toronto.
Game 1 took place on April 16, 2022, with the 76ers defeating the Raptors 131–111. Tyrese Maxey led Philadelphia with 38 points, although Joel Embiid recorded 15 rebounds. In Game 2 on April 18, Embiid scored 31 points as the 76ers won 112–97.
Philadelphia continued its strong play in Game 3 on April 20, winning 104–101 on the road. Embiid again led the way with 33 points and 13 rebounds. Toronto avoided elimination in Game 4 on April 23, winning 110–102 at home. Pascal Siakam paced the Raptors with 34 points, while two players tied for the team lead in rebounds with 11 each.
The Raptors forced a Game 5 with a 103–88 victory on April 25. Siakam contributed 23 points and Embiid grabbed 11 rebounds for Philadelphia. However, the 76ers closed out the series in Game 6 on April 28, winning 132–97. Embiid finished with 33 points, and Tobias Harris added 11 rebounds for Philadelphia.
Key Performers and Statistical Leaders
Throughout the series, Joel Embiid emerged as a dominant force for the 76ers, leading the team in scoring across multiple games and consistently contributing on the boards. His performances in Games 1, 2, 3, and 6 were particularly impactful, with scoring outputs of 38, 31, 33, and 33 points respectively.
For the Raptors, Pascal Siakam provided crucial offensive output, leading Toronto in scoring in Games 4 and 5 with 34 and 23 points. His ability to carry the offensive load kept Toronto competitive in several contests.
Rebounding was a key area of emphasis, with Embiid frequently leading either team in that category. He recorded double-digit rebounds in Games 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6, showcasing his versatility and impact on both ends of the floor.
Context and Significance
The 2022 playoff appearance marked the Raptors’ first return to postseason play since winning the NBA Championship in 2019. While the outcome resulted in a series loss to a talented 76ers squad, the experience provided valuable development opportunities for Toronto’s young core and reaffirmed the franchise’s commitment to contending in the Eastern Conference.
The series also underscored the competitive nature of the Eastern Conference during the 2021–22 season, where teams like the 76ers, Raptors, Bucks, Bulls, Nets, Celtics, and Heat all vied for positioning and playoff success.
As the NBA continues to evolve, the Raptors’ 2022 playoff run remains a notable chapter in the franchise’s recent history — one defined by resilience, individual excellence, and the ongoing pursuit of a return to championship contention.