Serge Ibaka's big blocks lead to instant offence for Raptors

When Raptors GM Masai Ujiri set out to make mid-season changes to the roster, defence was at the forefront of the team’s needs as the Raptors prepared for another long playoff run. Ujiri wound up swinging two trades to shore up the defence, bringing P.J. Tucker and Serge Ibaka north of the border.

It didn’t take long for Ibaka to prove just how well Ujiri’s trade has paid off.

Though the 27-year-old has been a dependable defender since joining Toronto, Ibaka put on a defensive display during the third quarter of the Raptors’ 106-100 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 3 on Tuesday.

Throwing back a dunk attempt from slender Bucks rookie Thon Maker, Ibaka jump started a fast-break the other way. The Congolese native continued the block party a few plays later, inviting Milwaukee’s superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo, to join in on the fun.

But Ibaka wasn’t just working hard on the defensive end. His 16-point performance included the Raptors’ 13th three-pointer–the most shots made from the land beyond in a post-season game in franchise history.

Ibaka’s big game complimented Lowry’s 22 points as the Raptors evened their best-of-seven series with Milwaukee at 1-1. Game 3 in Milwaukee is on Thursday.