Raptors’ Win Streak Clashed with Knicks’ Form in Key Eastern Conference Battle
TORONTO, 29 January 2026 – A compelling Eastern Conference showdown took place last night as the Toronto Raptors hosted the New York Knicks at Scotiabank Arena. The contest pitted two of the conference’s hottest teams against each other, with the Raptors aiming to extend a four-game win streak and the Knicks arriving with three consecutive victories of their own.
The Stakes at Scotiabank Arena
The matchup carried significant weight in the tightly contested Eastern Conference standings. Entering the game, the Raptors (29-19) held third place, just ahead of the Knicks (28-18) in the playoff picture. For Toronto, the game represented an opportunity to solidify their position and continue momentum built on a strong defensive effort, including a notable victory over the league-leading Oklahoma City Thunder. The Knicks, playing the second night of a back-to-back after defeating the Sacramento Kings, faced a tough challenge to maintain their own winning form on the road.
Key Facts & Pre-Game Context
| Team | Pre-Game Status |
|---|---|
| Toronto Raptors | On a four-game win streak. Scottie Barnes named Eastern Conference Player of the Week. Listed as 1.5-point home favourites. |
| New York Knicks | On a three-game win streak. Playing second game in two nights. Key centre Mitchell Robinson ruled out (ankle). Miles McBride also listed as out. |
| Season Series | Third meeting of the 2025-26 season. Knicks won the previous matchup in Toronto on 9 December 2025, 117-101. |
| Venue & Broadcast | Scotiabank Arena, Toronto. Televised nationally on NBA TV and Sportsnet in Canada. |
Player Spotlight and Injury Impact
All eyes were on the star guards, with Toronto’s Immanuel Quickley coming off a 40-point performance and New York’s Jalen Brunson leading his team’s offence. The absence of Knicks centre Mitchell Robinson due to an ankle injury was a significant pre-game storyline, potentially affecting New York’s interior defence and rebounding against a Raptors frontcourt featuring the in-form Scottie Barnes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Raptors vs Knicks game played?
The game was played on Wednesday 28 January 2026 at 7:30 pm ET at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario.
What was the significance of this game?
It was a crucial matchup between two top Eastern Conference teams riding significant win streaks, with direct implications for playoff positioning.
Were any key players injured for the Knicks?
Yes, according to the final injury reports, the New York Knicks were without starting centre Mitchell Robinson (ankle) and guard Miles McBride for the contest.
How had the teams been performing before this game?
The Toronto Raptors had won four consecutive games, while the New York Knicks had won their last three, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash.