Second-half opportunities cost Hornets in loss to Raptors
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Jan 1, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN;Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) looks to play a ball as Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) tries to defend during the third quarter in a game at Air Canada Centre. The Toronto Raptors won 104-94. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
After a tough defeat on Wednesday, the Hornets weren't able to start the New Year on a positive note as their shorthanded squad fell, 104-94, to the Raptors on Friday, Jan. 1, in Toronto. Although turnovers weren't nearly as big a problem as in games past, the Hornets fate was sealed on the rebounding front as they allowed a season-high 20 offensive rebounds and were outscored by the hometown Raptors in second-chance points, 26-8. Kemba Walker led the way for Charlotte with a team-high 18 points while DeMar DeRozan had another big night for Toronto, tallying 23 points in the Raptors victory.