Raptors set franchise record with 10th consecutive win

Toronto Raptors won their franchise-best 10th straight game in a 103-93 victory over New York Knicks in NBA action on Thursday evening.

The double-digit win streak surpasses the previous team record of nine wins in a row accomplished from Mar. 22 to Apr. 9, 2002.

In front of a capacity Air Canada Centre crowd, Raptors improved to 17-6 at home and 31-15 overall on the season. Raptors have sold out each of their first 23 home games this season, averaging 19,846 fans a game.

"It's not the end all, but it's an accomplishment," said Raptors head coach Dwane Casey following the victory in Toronto. "We can't dismiss the fact these young men have strung together 10 wins, the first time in 20 years."

According to Elias Sports Bureau, prior to the game, Raptors were one of four NBA franchises to have never recorded a double-digit winning streak in franchise history. With Toronto winning, Orlando, Indiana and Washington are the only teams that remain on the list.

During the 10 games, Raptors have averaged 105.1 points per game while allowing opponents to score 92.6 points per game, an average margin of 12.5 points. Including the victory over Knicks, six of the victories have been by double-digits.

Despite the impressive run, coach Casey is focused on the long-term goal: putting the team in the best position for the playoffs.

"We got to continue to improve, our goal is to be first in the conference," said Casey. "Whether we get it done or not, we'll see. That's why it's a marathon. That's why we can't be satisfied with winning 10 games in a row and relax."

Raptors currently sit comfortably in second place in the Eastern Conference with a five game lead on third-placed Chicago (25-19). Toronto trail Cleveland (32-12) by two games. Endit