Jakob Poeltl's All-Around Dominance Despite Raptors' Loss
Despite the Toronto Raptors falling to the Charlotte Hornets 114-106 on Tuesday night, center Jakob Poeltl put forth an impressive all-around performance that showcased his growing dominance in the NBA.
The Austrian big man finished the game with a monstrous stat line of 18 points, 21 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 blocks. Poeltl's rebounding prowess was especially noteworthy, as he grabbed 10 offensive boards to help the Raptors stay in the game.
Offensive Dominance
Poeltl's scoring came primarily from efficient shots near the rim. He shot 8-for-11 from the field and went 2-for-2 from the free throw line. The Hornets had no answer for Poeltl's size and strength, as he used his 7-foot-1 frame to bully his way inside.
Rebounding Machine
Poeltl's rebounding effort was a major factor in the Raptors' ability to stay competitive. His 21 rebounds were the most by any player in the game, and his 10 offensive rebounds gave the Raptors extra scoring opportunities.
Defensive Anchor
Not only did Poeltl dominate on the offensive and defensive boards, but he was also a force on defense. His four blocks were a testament to his ability to protect the paint.
Despite Poeltl's impressive performance, the Raptors were unable to pull out the victory. Turnovers and poor shooting plagued the team throughout the game. However, Poeltl's dominant performance gives Raptors fans reason to be optimistic about the team's future.