Wolves Host Toronto Trying to Stay Over .500

I missed the game against the Pistons as I have visitors in town, but it looks like a dominant performance was a bit spoiled by a poor 4th quarter. Still, a win is a win, and they matched last season's win total with 21 games left.  That's not bad.

One more win will give them their most wins since 2006-7, and their 34th win will be the most since 2004-5.  A rather sad commentary on the last decade of this franchise.

The Raptors are in town tonight, bringing with them a 34-26 record, which is third best in the Eastern Conference.  They have won 8 of their last 10 games, though the schedule has been favorable during that stretch.  They are being led by a backcourt that includes Kyle Lowry, who is playing fantastic basketball, and the emergent DeMar DeRozan, who has improved in several areas this season, most notably his distribution.

Second year player Terrance Ross has also contributed to the Raptors perimeter attack, as he has become a real threat from behind the arc, shooting 41% on nearly five attempts per game.  Amir Johnson and Jonas Valanciuanas balance their attack inside.

The Raptors do tend to foul quite a bit, and the Wolves will need to take advantage of their usual free throw disparity tonight.

A win will get them two games over .500.  I have no idea what to do with that state of affairs, it's been so long.  Perhaps it's like riding a bicycle.

Meanwhile, they remain four games behind in the loss column to both Dallas and Memphis, as the Knicks loss continues to rankle. Oh well. It's Wolves.

Today in history

1497: Copernicus' first recorded astronomical observation
1776: Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations is published
1862: Battle of the Monitor and Merrimack at Hampton Roads
1864: Grant appointed commander of Union Army
1959: The Barbie Doll debuts

Today's musical birthday is Saxophonist Ornette Coleman, who was born on this date in 1930

Enjoy your Sunday.