Raptors’ Physical Strategy Neutralizes Wembanyama but San Antonio Rallies for Narrow Win

The Raptors’ physical defense held Victor Wembanyama to 12 points, but a fourth-quarter Spurs comeback led to a 110-107 loss in Toronto.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 26, 2026, 8:36 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from CP24

A Strategic Gamble in the Paint

Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic shocked fans by benching veteran center Jakob Poeltl for rookie Collin Murray-Boyles (CMB) at the opening tip. The move was designed specifically to disrupt the rhythm of seven-foot-four phenom Victor Wembanyama through relentless physicality. While Wembanyama still recorded seven rebounds and five blocks, the strategy successfully suppressed his scoring, holding him nearly 12 points below his season average. Poeltl, who embraced the tactical shift, finished with 15 points and three blocks off the bench, proving effective against the Spurs’ second unit.

Fourth Quarter Collapse

Despite entering the final frame with a 12-point advantage, the Raptors' momentum evaporated during a disastrous 15-2 San Antonio run. The slump coincided with star forward Brandon Ingram resting after a heavy third quarter and Scottie Barnes dealing with a right quad contusion. Rajakovic noted that Barnes was "playing through the pain" and requested to stay off the floor if the team could maintain the lead without him. Ultimately, the lack of veteran leadership on the floor allowed the Spurs to reclaim control and secure the comeback victory.

Struggles Against Elite Competition

The loss marks Toronto’s second straight defeat against a top Western Conference opponent, following a narrow loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Raptors now hold a disappointing 4-15 record against the NBA’s top ten teams this season. Point guard Immanuel Quickley noted that these high-stakes games against physical, disciplined defenses are a necessary "taste of experience" for a young roster still learning how to close out games against elite title contenders.