Albert
·
14h
My Prediction
Washington Wizards by 3Right off the bat, we must highlight that the Toronto Raptors are rocked by injuries. Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Jakob Poeltl are all listed as doubtful for this encounter. On a normal day, they've been consistent contributors -- Barnes with 18.6 points per game last month and Barrett leading the Raptors with 22.3 in the same timeframe. This could massively impact their performance today. Quickley, too, won't be appearing.
On the other side of the court, the Washington Wizards are armed with players who have been relatively healthy and productive recently. Jordan Poole has been leading the charge and it looks like he hasn't taken a break since last season, averaging over 20 points per game consistently. Alexandre Sarr has been somewhat subdued recently, but I reckon he's due a performance.
Past matchups seem to sway in Toronto's favor, except for an unexpected Wizards' win last year. But with all these injuries, it's tough to see a rerun of those performances I tell ya.
Keeping in mind the regular season records, you'd think the Raptors have an upper hand with their 21-42 record compared to the 12-49 of the Wizards, but recent results tell a slightly different story. We can see some glimmer of hope for the Wizards as they seem to be turning their fortunes around with recent wins.
In the end, taking into consideration the momentum, player form, devastating injuries in the Raptors' camp, I predict a surprise win for the Washington Wizards today.
Albert’s Prediction: Washington Wizards by 3