The Raptors show why they should not be overlooked in the east this season after a win at home over the Celtics
By Justin Batiste
Tonight, the Toronto Raptors hosted the Boston Celtics in a thrilling and potential eastern conference finals matchup. By the way, the season has started for the Raptors thus far, the Raptors acquiring forward, Kawhi Leonard during the offseason is appearing to be the right move on their part.
Defensively, Leonard and the Raptors style of play complement each other. The Raptors, for a while, have been known as a team of quality defenders, however, offensively they’ve struggled with consistent play. Before Leonard got injured he was recognized as a top 5 player in the NBA who shot the ball efficiently (career: .49 FG%) and who should still be recognized as a top 5 player in the NBA. Well now, a defensive-minded team with players who have the ability to score, an all-star in Kyle Lowry and a two-way, top-5 superstar in Leonard is the reality of this Raptors team.
The Celtics are a very good team when it comes to creating open shots, but tonight, there were few open shot opportunities. The Celtics had to work for every point they scored. There were a few times in transition and on offensive rebound kick outs where the Celtics were able to get an open look. But when the Celtics had to play half-court basketball, the Raptors made everything difficult for them. The Raptors length, activity and discipline all played a factor in tonight’s game. Every time a player for the Celtics penetrated to the lane he had to look over his shoulder or make an adjustment on his shot just so it wouldn’t get blocked. At one point in the game, Jayson Tatum drove to the basket and was met by two defenders, Danny Green and Leonard. Tatum was doubled blocked from behind.
Similar to defense, the Raptors know who they are on offense. The offense goes through Leonard. Leonard is a playmaker, and the Raptors realize this. More than half the time the Raptors first option was to get the ball to Leonard in the post, that’s where he seems to work best at. Leonard did a good job of getting to his spots on the court tonight, which positioned his teammates to score. When Leonard received the ball in his spots, which were anywhere inside the three-point line preferably on the baseline. Leonard made a play. Whether it was him getting to the middle of the lane for a pull-up jump shot or finding an open teammate, the Raptors best offense tonight was feeding Leonard in the post.
When Leonard was out the game, the Raptors remained solid by constantly attacking the basket and taking good shots. Although this was only game two, the Raptors made it known that they’re to be respected this season. The Raptors (2-0) will play again tomorrow at 6:00 PM central time in Washington D.C against the Wizards (0-1), and the Celtics (1-1) will also play tomorrow at 6:30 PM central time in New York against the Knicks (1-1).
