Raptors Seek Revenge Against Vipers in G League Showdown

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario (Interstat) — The Raptors 905 will look to avenge a narrow midweek loss when they host the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in a G League rematch Friday night at Hershey Centre.

The matchup features two of the league’s top teams, with the West-leading Vipers (24-15) visiting the East-leading Raptors (30-12). The teams just met Wednesday, with Rio Grande Valley escaping with a 123-121 victory behind a near triple-double from Tristen Newton.

Newton, the Vipers’ standout forward, posted 21 points, nine rebounds and nine assists in that contest. He enters Friday’s game on a torrid scoring stretch, averaging 24.3 points over his last six games, including a 34-point outburst against San Diego on Feb. 25.

He will be matched by Raptors 905 forward David Roddy, who scored a team-high 27 points and dished six assists in Wednesday’s loss. Roddy has been a consistent force, scoring at least 17 points in six straight games and recording a 15-rebound performance against Cleveland on Feb. 10.

The Raptors have lost three of their last four, including a surprising 141-106 home defeat to Greensboro on Sunday. The Vipers have been more consistent, winning seven of their last ten, though their victories have often been nail-biters, including three overtime wins in recent weeks.

Friday’s contest is the final regular-season meeting between the clubs. With both teams jockeying for playoff positioning, the Raptors will aim to protect their home floor and split the season series, while the Vipers seek a valuable road sweep to solidify their conference standing.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.