The Toronto Raptors failed to meet the challenge of Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics and lost 116-110 at Scotiabank Arena on Monday.

Head coach Nick Nurse described the Boston team as the “best team on the circuit” ahead of the meeting. Not only does his excellent record of 20-5, good for first place on the Silver Circuit, prove him right, but also his impressive punching power.

In today’s duel, Tatum led the guests with 31 points and 12 rebounds. No other player has thrown the ball off the three-point line more often, and the 24-year-old rewarded himself with five shots from downtown.

Jaylen Brown (22 points, eight rebounds, eight assists) and Marcus Smart (18 points, seven assists) also made life difficult for Canada’s only NBA team.

In the third quarter, the Raptors lost control of the game, overplaying 35-18 on the board. However, Pascal Siakam will not have much to blame himself for. The Cameroonian scored 29 points, his third-best tally of the season, in his most productive game since returning from injury.

Youngster Scottie Barnes (21 points) didn’t look bad in the loss, while Fred VanVleet has had significantly better days. The point guard completed just three of his 14 shot attempts for a meager eight points.

The Raptors host Anthony Davis, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday.

Sleeps discreetly in victory

At State Farm Arena, Luguentz Dort struggled to gain a foothold in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 121-114 win over the Atlanta Hawks.

The Quebecer missed 12 of his 16 shots and finished the game with 11 points. However, his 10 rebounds, including eight near the Ring of Thunder, added to his cause.

Canadian Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his incredible streak to score 35 points, his seventh straight game to go over 30 points.

Dejounte Murray (24 points) and Trae Young (23 points, 10 assists) fought back for the Hawks.