Basketball season has officially begun!
It’s been an exciting first week to say the least. Kawhi Leonard played his first official game as a Toronto Raptor. LeBron James played his first game as an LA Laker and this past Sunday Russell Westbrook played his first game since undergoing knee surgery in September. Lots has happened, but let’s focus on the Raptors.
Game 1
The Toronto Raptors played their first game at home on Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Kawhi had a pretty good start to the season, scoring 24 points, with 2 assists and 13 rebounds, really proving that he’s as good defensively as he is offensively. Kyle Lowry also had a great game, with 27 points and 8 assists. The Raptors ended up defeating the Cavaliers 104-116, after leading for most of the game. However, with the Cavaliers losing LeBron James, this wasn’t a difficult win for the Raptors. The Cavaliers have been tinkering with their starting lineup, often playing rookies like Collin Sexton while they try to find their best matchups. Until the Cavaliers find their groove, many feel that they’re not very much of a threat yet.
Game 2
Game 2 was also at home for the Raptors, against the uprising Boston Celtics. The Celtics lead most of the game, and it wasn’t until the end of the third period that the Raptors clenched the lead. They finished the game 113-101, making the Raptors 2-0 for the start of the season. Kawhi Leonard stepped it up this game playing 35 minutes, with 31 points, 3 assists and 10 rebounds. Lowry only had 16 points this game, but he had 6 assists and 6 rebounds, so at least he’s doing well defensively. Serge Ibaka had a good game on Friday too, totalling 21 points and 6 rebounds. Considering Serge is more a defensive player, this was a good scoring night for him. The Boston Celtics is home to Kyrie Irving, who has been referred to as the NBA’s “Greatest Ball Handler”. This win was a huge step for the Raptors in proving that they’re back this season better than ever after the acquisition of Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green.
Game 3
The Raptors had their first game on the road on Saturday in Washington. Leonard did not play, instead resting on Saturday, giving some of the Toronto bench players a chance to shine. Norman Powell had 5 rebounds in 23 minutes, and OG Anunoby had 12 points and 4 rebounds after 28 minutes on the court. Kyle Lowry achieved a double-double this game, with 28 points and 12 assists. Again, Toronto won this game 117-113, making them 3-0 for the first time in three years. The last time Toronto had this good of a start was during the 2015-16 season where they started a franchise-best 5-0 to open the year.
Thoughts?
The Toronto Raptors are set to have a great season. With Kawhi Leonard on their team, their defense is already improving, considering he is already averaging 11 rebounds per game. Danny Green is also proving to be a great addition, averaging 10 points and 4 rebounds per game. And with Kyle Lowry stepping up defensively, currently averaging 9 assists per game, the team is already taking the necessary measures to make their way to the playoffs. Nick Nurse is continuously making changes to the starting lineup, trying to find the best matchups, and if we find the right mix, the Raptors are definite contenders for the NBA Finals.
