The Atlanta Hawks defeated the host Toronto Raptors, 125 - 121, at Air Canada Center on Friday. The recent form of these teams would indicate an easy Toronto win, but Atlanta had other ideas. In fact, the Hawks led for nearly every minute of this game, with the Raptors having their only lead in the first quarter. Both offenses were extremely efficient, as they each shot over 53 percent from the field. Atlanta dominated in the interior, as they won the rebounding battle, 44 - 28, and outscored Toronto, 62 - 46 in the paint. Atlanta (13 - 13) has been struggling recently, but a 125 - point outing on the road is just what the doctor ordered. Dwight Howard was the player of the game, as he totaled 27 points and 15 rebounds in the win. Dennis Schroder also played great, tallying 24 points, two rebounds and six assists. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Paul Millsap each provided 14 points, while providing solid defense. Kyle Korver finally got out of his slump, dropping 19 points on 6 - of - 10 shooting off the bench. Atlanta will be in action again on Saturday, when they host the Charlotte Hornets. Toronto (18 - 8) has been dominant on the offensive end this season, but a 121 - point outing did n't quite get it done here. DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry once again carried the load, as they combined for 61 points and 10 assists. DeRozan led the team with 34 points, five rebounds and four assists, while Lowry provided 27 points and six assists. The other three starters combined for just 19 points, six rebounds and three assists. Cory Joseph was a nice spark off the bench, accruing 17 points, four rebounds and four assists. Terrence Ross and Patrick Patterson each dropped 10 points apiece off the bench as well. Toronto will return to action on Sunday in a road matchup against the Orlando Magic.
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