The breakout, the redemption, and the disappointment from Raptors’ win over Bucks

The Toronto Raptors improved to 1-1 in NBA Cup play with a 121-107 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks despite missing Immanuel Quickley and Scottie Barnes. Toronto overcame a difficult first half by outscoring Milwaukee 70-47 in the second half. Alijah Martin led the bench with a career-high 27 points on 6-of-7 shooting from three-point range, while Jamal Shead recorded 10 points and 16 assists with just one turnover.

Writer Chris Lambert highlighted Jakob Poeltl's strong interior play, noting his 19 points and 11 rebounds helped fuel Toronto's comeback. However, Lambert expressed ongoing concern regarding RJ Barrett and Ja'Kobe Walter, arguing that Walter struggled offensively on 2-of-12 shooting and Barrett showed he is better suited as a complementary scorer rather than a primary creator.