Philadelphia 76ers center Andre Drummond (1) plays defence as Toronto Raptors guard Jared Rhoden (8) moves the ball up the court during the first half of an NBA game in Toronto on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn)
Jared Rhoden had a career-best night, scoring 25 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, leading the Toronto Raptors to a 118-105 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday. However, it was his defensive play—four steals, another career high—that stood out the most to him.
"I take pride in defence," said Rhoden. "That’s what will keep me in the NBA. Scoring is great, but I have to defend to stay."
Rhoden, like many of his teammates, is fighting to prove himself. With 17 players unavailable across both teams, Toronto had only two experienced players on the floor—Jakob Poeltl and Garrett Temple. The rest were rookies, two-way players, or on short-term contracts.
Toronto was missing key starters, including Immanuel Quickley (rest), RJ Barrett (personal reasons), Scottie Barnes (injury), and Gradey Dick (injury). A total of nine Raptors sat out.
"People always talk about opportunities in the NBA," Rhoden said. "Talent is everywhere, but it’s about making the most of your chance."
Orlando Robinson, who recently upgraded to a standard contract, also had a stellar night with 25 points and 12 rebounds. Colin Castleton, playing on a 10-day deal, grabbed a career-high 14 rebounds. A.J. Lawson, another two-way player, continued his hot streak with 28 points after scoring a career-high 32 in his previous game.
Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic praised the organization’s scouting and player development efforts. "It shows the great work our front office and G-League system are doing. These guys step up when given the chance."
Robinson, who previously played for the Miami Heat and Sacramento Kings organizations, agreed. "It’s all about seizing the moment. Guys like A.J., Jared, and me—we’re making sure no one forgets about us."
With this win, the Raptors moved half a game ahead of the 76ers in the standings. The loss puts Philadelphia in the fifth spot for the upcoming NBA Draft lottery. Toronto, meanwhile, holds the seventh-worst record, with a 31.9% chance of landing a top-four pick and a 7.5% shot at the first overall selection.
