Imagine this: the NBA’s last-place team, the Washington Wizards, not only snapping a four-game home losing streak but also delivering their highest-scoring performance of the season. Yes, you read that right. On December 26, 2025, the Wizards stunned the Toronto Raptors with a 138-117 victory, leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: the Raptors entered the game with the league’s fourth-best defensive rating. So, how did this happen? Let’s break it down.
Keyshawn George led the charge with 23 points on an efficient 9-of-13 shooting, while CJ McCollum and Bilal Coulibaly each chipped in 21 points. And this is the part most people miss: the Wizards didn’t just win—they dominated. Shooting a blistering 59.3% from the field, out-rebounding the Raptors 46-33, and outscoring them 36-17 in the fourth quarter, Washington turned a close game into a blowout. Coulibaly’s dunk with 3:50 left sealed the deal, pushing the lead to 20 points for the first time.
Now, let’s talk controversy. The Raptors, already reeling from a 9-13 slump, were without starters RJ Barrett (knee sprain) and Jakob Poetl (back strain). But is that enough to explain such a lopsided loss? Brandon Ingram’s 29 points and Immanuel Quickley’s 25 were impressive, but Toronto’s defense—their supposed strength—crumbled under pressure. Sandro Mamukelashvili’s double-double (13 points, 11 rebounds) wasn’t enough to keep the Raptors afloat. Here’s the bold question: Is Toronto’s defensive reputation overrated, or was this just an off night? Let us know in the comments.
The game’s turning point? After cutting an 11-point halftime deficit to just two by the end of the third quarter, the Raptors seemed poised for a comeback. But Justin Champagnie and Bub Carrington hit back-to-back 3-pointers early in the fourth, and the Wizards never looked back. McCollum and Carrington later combined for a quick spurt that extended the lead to 16, effectively ending Toronto’s hopes.
Looking ahead, the Raptors begin a five-game homestand against Golden State on Sunday, while the Wizards continue their homestand against Memphis. Will Toronto bounce back, or is this the start of a deeper slide? And can the Wizards build on this momentum, or was this just a one-off performance? One thing’s for sure: this game has sparked more questions than answers. What’s your take? Sound off below!
