Biyombo's double-double lifts Raptors over Magic

Toronto Raptors center Bismack Biyombo recorded his eighth double-double of the season in the team's 105-100 victory over Orlando Magic in Sunday evening's NBA game.

The 23-year-old started over injured Jonas Valanciunas for the fourth consecutive game and recorded 12 points, 11 rebounds and six blocks in the win.

"What he brings to the table is invaluable," said Raptors head coach Dwane Casey following the game in Toronto. "His spirit and energy, you can't put a number on it."

During Valanciunas' absence over the last four games, Toronto is a perfect 4-0 with Biyombo averaging 11.0 points, 15.0 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game as a starter.

Included in this stretch was the big man's Mar. 17 performance against Indiana where he set career highs in points and rebounds with 16 and 25, respectively. The 25 rebounds also set a new team-record for most rebounds in a game.

On the season, the fifth-year-veteran has played in each of the team's 69 games this season. In 22 games as a starter, he has averaged 7.2 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.0 blocks.

"We are all together and playing for each other," said Biyombo following the game. "At the end it's more about the team rather than just one guy."

Despite his team-first mentality, Biyombo is having a career season. He is averaging career highs in points (5.6), rebounds (8.3), defensive rebounds (6.0), free throws made (1.7), free throws attempted (2.7) and free throw percentage (63.3).

"Teams have to really prepare for him," said Casey. "They're committing two people to him to keep him off the boards and that's a sign of respect." Endi