Blake Murphy Sports Writing

Title: Can the Raptors pay VanVleet and still take a run at Giannis? Probably, but Siakam’s deal may factor in too
Date: November 22, 2019
Original Source: The Athletic
Synopsis: In my latest for The Athletic Toronto, I wrote about the Raptors’ potential willingness to pay on Fred VanVleet’s next deal, keeping in mind a possible Giannis Antetokounmpo pursuit in 2021.
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Title: Chris Boucher paves way for next wave of Raptors 905 doubleheader crew in more ways than one
Date: November 21, 2019
Original Source: The Athletic
Synopsis: In my latest for The Athletic Toronto, I wrote about three new entries into the Raptors-905 doubleheader club, made possible by a strong night from a club alumni, Chris Boucher..
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Title: Murphy: Now that Norman Powell has shown who he is, he must prove he can also be consistent
Date: November 20, 2019
Original Source: The Athletic
Synopsis: In my latest for The Athletic Toronto, I wrote about Norman Powell’s micro-inconsistency within his macro-stability.
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Title: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson sets himself up as the Raptors’ next fan favourite
Date: November 18, 2019
Original Source: The Athletic
Synopsis: In my latest for The Athletic Toronto, I wrote about Rondae Hollis-Jefferson breaking through in the Raptors’ rotation and, maybe, on the franchise’s short-term fan-favorite list.
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Title: Raptors’ star-stopping defence can’t slow Luka Doncic, and other takeaways from a trip-ending loss to the Mavericks
Date: November 16, 2019
Original Source: The Athletic
Synopsis: In my latest for The Athletic Toronto, I wrote about a tough Raptors loss to the Mavericks, highlighting Luka Doncic’s dominance, Pascal Siakam’s rough night, and more.
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Title: Yes, Marc Gasol needs to be more assertive on offence, but there’s still plenty to like about his game
Date: November 12, 2019
Original Source: The Athletic
Synopsis: In my latest for The Athletic Toronto, I wrote about Marc Gasol’s passive start for the Raptors, and how a few tweaks to his role can help amplify what’s already a strong impact on team performance.
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