Patterson scores season high first time as Raptors starter

TORONTO, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) — Toronto Raptors forward Patrick Patterson scored a season-high 22 points in the team’s 108-101 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday.

The game was also Patterson’s first start as a Raptor. He replaced power forward Amir Johnson who sat out with a sore right ankle.

“I started in Houston, so it’s not new. It’s all about making sure I have a positive role and knowing I have a positive role,” said Patterson after the game.

“Whether I’m starting or whether I’m playing, it’s about knowing my role on the team.”

Since joining Toronto in the seven-player trade with Sacramento in December, the three-year player from University of Kentucky has played a significant role with the team, often as the first coming off the bench.

“It’s the same thing,” Patterson answered when asked about differences in his mental approach when starting versus coming off the bench.

“Setting screens, rebounding, shooting my shot, running the floor in transition and making my teammates better.”

Since the trade, Patterson’s team-first mindset has rubbed on to his teammates, resulting in a 20-11 record since the trade. Patterson has played in 30 of the 31 games, averaging 22.6 minutes, 10.1 points and five rebounds.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/sports/2014-02/11/c_133106462.htm