Raptors Struggle Against Pelicans
The Toronto Raptors suffered a significant setback in their playoff aspirations, losing to the New Orleans Pelicans 122-111 on March 11, 2026. This defeat places the Raptors in a precarious position, now a half game behind the Miami Heat in the standings.
The Pelicans, who had not played for two days prior to this matchup, capitalized on their rest, showcasing a dominant performance. They executed a critical 22-5 run in the third quarter, which allowed them to build a substantial lead, at one point leading by as much as 19 points.
Despite the Raptors’ efforts to mount a comeback, cutting the deficit to just two points midway through the fourth quarter, they ultimately fell short. In the final ten minutes of the game, the Pelicans outscored the Raptors 27-18, sealing their victory.
As of this game, the Raptors hold a record of 36-28, while the Pelicans improve to 21-45. The Raptors are currently positioned seventh in the standings, which places them in contention for the play-in tournament.
Commenting on the loss, an anonymous source noted, “This game might be the worst loss in that stretch,” highlighting the disappointment surrounding the team’s performance. Another source remarked, “Great teams don’t squander opportunities like these,” emphasizing the critical nature of this defeat.
The Raptors are set to return home to face Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns on March 11, 2026, in a game that could prove pivotal for their playoff hopes. The matchup is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans are looking to extend their three-game home winning streak, which has provided them with a much-needed boost in confidence.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the impact of this loss on the Raptors’ strategy moving forward, but the urgency to secure wins is evident as they approach the final stretch of the season.
