2 Raptors Reserves’ Monster Stat Lines Give Toronto Options

Toronto Raptors reserves Alijah Martin and Jamal Shead delivered career-best performances to lead Toronto to a 121-107 NBA Cup victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. Martin scored a career-high 27 points off the bench, including six 3-pointers, while Shead dished out a career-high 16 assists starting in place of the injured Immanuel Quickley. Missing multiple key players, Toronto overcame a 14-point deficit to improve to 5-4.

Samuel Hernandez argues that the breakout performances give head coach Darko Rajakovic valuable rotation options while Scottie Barnes, Kawhi Leonard, and Quickley remain sidelined. RJ Barrett also scored 27 points, and Jakob Poeltl recorded 19 points and 11 rebounds. The writer cautions that both reserves must prove they can sustain their strong production against tougher competition once injured starters eventually return to the lineup.