Raptors’ fans are anxious to erupt. Will it be this year?
Fans have a right to question the Raptors’ fate. Even with the acquisition of Kawhi Leonard in the offseason, will the Raptors make it to the NBA finals this year?
For the past two seasons, the team has fallen short. This time, though, experts believe the Raptors have a fighting chance.
No LeBron James
LeBron James’ decision to leave the Cavaliers and play for Los Angeles Lakers will play in the Raptors’ favor. James had a history of shutting down the Raptors. This year, though, there’s no James. There’s no Cavs, either. The means obstacles have been removed from the Raptors’ path to the Finals.
No Magic in Orlando
Early on, some believed that the Raptors would have a tough time taking out the Orlando Magic in the playoff’s first round. ‘Tough time’ was replaced by ‘easy sledding.’ The Raptors proved to be dominant in this series, winning 4-1, and doing so in emphatic fashion (winning Game 4, 107 to 85, and Game 5, 115-96).
The 76ers have closed out the Nets (also winning the series 4-1). That means NBA fans will now have a series of great interest–Toronto v. Philadelphia.
Leonard and Ibaka Lead the Way
Sports Illustrated
This year, the Toronto Raptors are an undeniable presence in the NBA playoffs. The team has come up big when some thought they would fail. Two reasons are Kawhi Leonard and Serge Ibaka.
Leonard leads the team in scoring in points. Ibaka is chairman of the boards.
Impressive both, these stars must continue to shine as the Raptors move through the East. Add Kyle Lowry to that list of ‘must’ players.
Summary
So far, at least, things are looking good for the Toronto Raptors. Of course, there’s a long road ahead and Toronto must play its best to achieve the prize it seeks, The Finals. The recipe is to forget the past and for Leonard, Ibaka, and Lowry to come up big.
If Toronto plays hard and smart, ‘We The North‘ will capture the fancy of NBA fans around the world. And Canadian fans will … well … go crazy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfO0XYqjl5M
