Raptors losing streak: Toronto ends near-record skid one game after historic loss to Timberwolves

The Raptors' 2023-24 season is nearing its end, and they almost made some unfortunate history on the way out.

Toronto has known for some time that this wasn't going to be its year. Before the trade deadline, the Raptors traded away Pascal Siakam, O.G. Anunoby, Otto Porter Jr., Dennis Schroder, and others as the team looked to rebuild the roster around star guard Scottie Barnes and a younger core.

On Jan. 7, the Raptors had a record of 15-21 and a winning percentage of .417. Two games later, the winning percentage dipped below .400, and it hasn't reached that mark since. And since the team had a season-best winning streak of three from Feb. 22-26, the Raptors have won only two games after an improbable victory over the Bucks on Friday.

Before Friday, Toronto went without a win since beating the dismal Hornets on March 3. The Raptors didn't quite approach the mark for the worst losing streak in NBA history, but the team neared the worst losing streak in franchise history.

Here's everything you need to know about the Raptors' losing streak.

MORE: Former Raptor Malachi Flynn makes history in loss vs. Hawks

Raptors longest losing streak

Toronto was bludgeoned 133-85 by the Timberwolves on Wednesday. The 48-point loss was the worst defeat in franchise history.

The loss also pushed the Raptors' losing streak to 15 consecutive games. That put the team in dangerous territory of reaching the franchise record for the longest losing streak in team history.

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Raptors schedule 2023-24

There are only six games left on the calendar for the Raptors. That gives Toronto enough time to reach the longest losing streak in team history. 

To match the record, it will take losing an understandable game and then blowing a potentially winnable contest. Coming up, the Raptors are playing the Bucks on the road, then return home to host the Wizards. Lose both those games and a home tilt with the Pacers will determine whether the losing streak reaches franchise record.

Here's a look at Toronto's remaining schedule:

UPDATE: The Raptors ended their losing streak with a 117-111 win over the Bucks on Friday night. Gary Trent Jr poured in 31 points and RJ Barrett added 26 to pace Toronto, who took advantage of Giannis Antetokounmpo's absence.

When did the Raptors' losing streak begin?

Toronto's losing streak began on March 5.

The Raptors hosted the Pelicans and were blown out 139-98 as all five New Orleans starters picked up double-digit points and Trey Murphy III scored a game-high 34 off the bench.

Toronto has lost to teams by at least 40 points three times with an average margin of defeat of 19.1 points per game. The Raptors have ranked 30th in offensive efficiency and 29th in defensive efficiency during the skid.