I am back from my day off. Did manage to catch some of the Raptors win over the Wizards in which they started like a lion and ended like a lamb. However given their performances in the past vs the Wizards they will take the win. It was the dreaded 99 point no pizza for you win as well. Up next for the Raptors is the Charlotte Bobcats. The fact the Raptors have lost twice to both the Wizards and Bobcats is likely the biggest factor in keeping them in decent position in the draft lottery standings. Cleveland is in a free fall and they will play Raptors on Friday and that will be a big game in those lottery standings. Unlike with Wizards and Bobcats the Raptors have owned the Cavs this season going a perfect 3-0 on the season. My prediction of the Raptors winning 20 games seems destined to happen with 18 wins in the books already. It could even go higher than that with games vs Bobcats, Cavs, Pistons and Nets all left on the schedule. I would think the Raptors at minimum can get 4 more wins this season to finish with 22 wins. Better than what anyone expected and the credit for that goes mostly to Dwane Casey.
So the reason I took the weekend off was Wrestlemania. I needed a break and just wanted to enjoy some sports entertainment. The main event of that card was John Cena vs The Rock. It had a one year build up to it and in the end the match itself was good but far from great. Why do I mention this here? The Raptors have been doing their own one year build to the coming of Jonas Valancuinas and I would suggest most will be left feeling the same way as I did about the Rock vs Cena Match. It is extremely hard for anyone to live up to a year long of hype to their arrival. There have only been a few situations that have been similar to this. Ricky Rubio is the closest example and the build for him was even longer. He stepped up to the plate and till his injury was hitting a home run in Minnesota. Lebron James had a year long of hype when he was in high school prior to coming to the NBA. He hit a grand slam when he finally arrived in the NBA. Those are the exceptions to the rule for the most part. If you look forward to something long enough it almost always never means the high expectations you build in your mind. There is no question Jonas should help things head in the right direction. I think we have seen enough of this kid to establish he will not be a complete bust on the next level. If you think he is the answer and will solve all the Raptors problems and turn them into a playoff team right away you will be disappointed.
It is a busy week for the Raptors with games on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. It is a busy week for myself as well. I will be down covering the game on Friday at the ACC against the Cavs. On Sunday will be at St Louis Wings for the game between the Raptors and Thunder for our party this year. It will be a fun night and after the Easter Bunny has done his thing come out and hang out with us at the Bay St Location of St Louis Wings and watch the best basketball team in the world take on your Toronto Raptors. That is what I am calling the OKC Thunder these days the BEST BASKETBALL TEAM IN THE WORLD. Check how they have been playing lately and who they have been beating lately as evidence of that fact. It should be fun. So a busy week ahead so in the words of former Raptor Reggie Evans...LET'S GET IT!!!
Showing posts with label Washington Wizards. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Washington Wizards. Show all posts
2/7/12
Wild Night In Washington
Remember this?
Strange things happen in Washington. Nothing strange happened the first time the Raptors and Wizards met there earlier in the season. The Raptors as they were tonight were on the 2nd half of back to back. The Wizards were rested but without a win. That would change on that night as the Wizards would dismantle the Raptors in embarrassing fashion. It appeared we were heading for a replay of that on this night. After scoring the opening basket the Raptors would have 4 straight turnovers leading to 4 Wizards baskets. Turnovers would be a big factor in the first win the Wizards had in Washington. The Raptors would get back into it only to fall flat again and the Wizards enjoyed a 28-18 lead after one. The Raptors were getting torched by John Wall and friends as they were owning the paint. Something on Friday in Toronto they could not do. Things would not improve in the 2nd as the Wizards continued to put the wood to the Raptors at one point leading by 18 points. It was just an awful performance on the defensive end. Perhaps given that circumstances the worst of the season.
It was hard to stay actively involved as a viewer. But the Raptors did threaten to make a comeback. But after small bursts the Raptors would seem to hit a wall at the 10 point mark. A big physiological barrier in basketball. How often do we hear, if they could just get it to single digits they might have a shot at this game. Well the Raptors defence was still not getting it done but they did find a way to score. That way as the game went on would be Jerryd Bayless. He finished the night with 30 points on 9-23 shooting. The Raptors would outscore the Wizards 30-25 in the 3rd and sat stuck on that 10 point barrier that they could seem to break through with the score 82-72 after 3 quarters. Bayless on night may have been a volume shooter but in the 4th he was on the money more than he wasn't. He would be helped by Linas Kleiza who was one of few Raptors who was on point the entire night, going 11-16 on the evening and had 30 points of his own. The two combined for 10 three pointers, a lot of those coming down the stretch of this game in the 4th. The Raptors after a long battle the Raptors had finally climbed all the way back. Their first lead since the early moments of the game was erased in the blink of an eye by John Wall. He had 31 points on the night by the way. But in the end the Raptors would have a chance for another miracle in Washington with game tied at 105. After the refs went to replay they would decide the Raptors would have .9 seconds left to try and get the win. As you watched above the shot made by Morris Peterson did not win the game it only sent game to overtime. In the end the Raptors tried a long lob pass to try and put this game on ice but no dice.
This one would head to overtime and in that overtime is was pretty awful. The Raptors only managed to score 3 points. The Wizards would only manage 6 points but that was enough. The Raptors would have a chance to tie the game with a 3 but thankfully for the viewing audience it did not fall for Jose Calderon. Who ironically got the shot after Rasaul Butler passed him the ball. You can only imagine the horror had he shot it and missed. In the end if there was ever a game in which both teams made a solid case for both deserving a loss this might have been the game. But the Wizards can walk away with a much needed W for them only their 5th on the year with 2 wins over both the Bobcats and the Raptors and a shocking win over OKC. The final was 111-108 and don't expect this game to live on like the game in Washington that Morris Peterson tied and the Raptors eventually won. The Raptors were in a playoff race and that win would actually hurt the Raptors as it turned out. It lead to the Raptors facing the Nets instead of a injury plagued opposition. But at the time it was huge. Tonight's game is far less significant. But this is the type of loss that could stick with a team. Not exactly what the Raptors need on the verge of their longest home stand of the season of 7 games.
The glass half full or half empty debate will rage about this game. Do you give credit to the Raptors for fighting back and getting in this game at all after going down 18? That or do you blame the Raptors for a flat and awful performance to start this game that got them in the spot to begin with. I would say to things on behalf of the glass half empty folks. First this is a team that you should have beat and did beat handily on Friday. Two this is a bad basketball team and as much as the Raptors did earn their way to overtime it was also a big result of their opposition's poor play. Dwane Casey was not pleased after the first half and he had every right not to be. There was no moral victory in the Raptors coming back in this game. The reality is they never should have been in a position to have to come back from that far behind. They dug their grave in the first half. As I stated yesterday, after a great performance from the Raptors in Miami, it would mean nothing, if they did not win the game they should win today. I was called lame for that. But that isn't lame that is the truth and sometimes that hurts. Demar DeRozan wasn't terrible with 15 points going 4-10 from field and 7-8 at the line. But he didn't exactly build on what he did Sunday afternoon in Miami either. Consistency is a talent and a skill. As an individual for Demar and as a team the Raptors have lacked it from game to game, half to half and quarter to quarter. No matter what the standings happen to say in order to be a playoff team the first step to that is consistency.
Strange things happen in Washington. Nothing strange happened the first time the Raptors and Wizards met there earlier in the season. The Raptors as they were tonight were on the 2nd half of back to back. The Wizards were rested but without a win. That would change on that night as the Wizards would dismantle the Raptors in embarrassing fashion. It appeared we were heading for a replay of that on this night. After scoring the opening basket the Raptors would have 4 straight turnovers leading to 4 Wizards baskets. Turnovers would be a big factor in the first win the Wizards had in Washington. The Raptors would get back into it only to fall flat again and the Wizards enjoyed a 28-18 lead after one. The Raptors were getting torched by John Wall and friends as they were owning the paint. Something on Friday in Toronto they could not do. Things would not improve in the 2nd as the Wizards continued to put the wood to the Raptors at one point leading by 18 points. It was just an awful performance on the defensive end. Perhaps given that circumstances the worst of the season.
It was hard to stay actively involved as a viewer. But the Raptors did threaten to make a comeback. But after small bursts the Raptors would seem to hit a wall at the 10 point mark. A big physiological barrier in basketball. How often do we hear, if they could just get it to single digits they might have a shot at this game. Well the Raptors defence was still not getting it done but they did find a way to score. That way as the game went on would be Jerryd Bayless. He finished the night with 30 points on 9-23 shooting. The Raptors would outscore the Wizards 30-25 in the 3rd and sat stuck on that 10 point barrier that they could seem to break through with the score 82-72 after 3 quarters. Bayless on night may have been a volume shooter but in the 4th he was on the money more than he wasn't. He would be helped by Linas Kleiza who was one of few Raptors who was on point the entire night, going 11-16 on the evening and had 30 points of his own. The two combined for 10 three pointers, a lot of those coming down the stretch of this game in the 4th. The Raptors after a long battle the Raptors had finally climbed all the way back. Their first lead since the early moments of the game was erased in the blink of an eye by John Wall. He had 31 points on the night by the way. But in the end the Raptors would have a chance for another miracle in Washington with game tied at 105. After the refs went to replay they would decide the Raptors would have .9 seconds left to try and get the win. As you watched above the shot made by Morris Peterson did not win the game it only sent game to overtime. In the end the Raptors tried a long lob pass to try and put this game on ice but no dice.
This one would head to overtime and in that overtime is was pretty awful. The Raptors only managed to score 3 points. The Wizards would only manage 6 points but that was enough. The Raptors would have a chance to tie the game with a 3 but thankfully for the viewing audience it did not fall for Jose Calderon. Who ironically got the shot after Rasaul Butler passed him the ball. You can only imagine the horror had he shot it and missed. In the end if there was ever a game in which both teams made a solid case for both deserving a loss this might have been the game. But the Wizards can walk away with a much needed W for them only their 5th on the year with 2 wins over both the Bobcats and the Raptors and a shocking win over OKC. The final was 111-108 and don't expect this game to live on like the game in Washington that Morris Peterson tied and the Raptors eventually won. The Raptors were in a playoff race and that win would actually hurt the Raptors as it turned out. It lead to the Raptors facing the Nets instead of a injury plagued opposition. But at the time it was huge. Tonight's game is far less significant. But this is the type of loss that could stick with a team. Not exactly what the Raptors need on the verge of their longest home stand of the season of 7 games.
The glass half full or half empty debate will rage about this game. Do you give credit to the Raptors for fighting back and getting in this game at all after going down 18? That or do you blame the Raptors for a flat and awful performance to start this game that got them in the spot to begin with. I would say to things on behalf of the glass half empty folks. First this is a team that you should have beat and did beat handily on Friday. Two this is a bad basketball team and as much as the Raptors did earn their way to overtime it was also a big result of their opposition's poor play. Dwane Casey was not pleased after the first half and he had every right not to be. There was no moral victory in the Raptors coming back in this game. The reality is they never should have been in a position to have to come back from that far behind. They dug their grave in the first half. As I stated yesterday, after a great performance from the Raptors in Miami, it would mean nothing, if they did not win the game they should win today. I was called lame for that. But that isn't lame that is the truth and sometimes that hurts. Demar DeRozan wasn't terrible with 15 points going 4-10 from field and 7-8 at the line. But he didn't exactly build on what he did Sunday afternoon in Miami either. Consistency is a talent and a skill. As an individual for Demar and as a team the Raptors have lacked it from game to game, half to half and quarter to quarter. No matter what the standings happen to say in order to be a playoff team the first step to that is consistency.
2/6/12
Raptors Look For Some Revenge In D.C
Raptors come into Washington feeling good about themselves. The last time it was a similar situation after a win over Minnesota the day before. True the Raptors never won yesterday but the fact they could hang with the Heat had to instill some confidence. Again the Wizards had the chance to rest and prepare for the Raptors. But the difference might be what happened on Friday in Toronto, where the Raptors dismantled the Wizards in their second meeting of the season. Demar DeRozan had a loud and strong message for his doubters yesterday in Miami. The question will be was that just a flash of brilliance or something to build on. After all most players can find motivation to take on Lebron James and the Heat. Little different story for John Wall and the Wizards.
You want to talk about struggling how about we talk about John Wall. We didn't in the last preview for the Wizards. Maybe it was the fact he only scored 2 points the game prior to the loss in Toronto. At the time he was drafted he was going to be the guy to fix the Wizards. We were suppose to forget about all the dysfunction,Gilbert Arenas and guns in the locker room. But for the most part Wall has been firing blanks and is starting to look like the big B word. You know the one many Toronto fans called Andrea Bargnani in the past. After a somewhat successful rookie season that was held back by injuries Wall's numbers are down across the board this season through 24 games. Averaging a point less a game and 1.2 assists a game. But beyond the numbers he just doesn't seem to be the leader the Wizards were hoping for. If there is a team that is more dysfunctional than the Wizards in the NBA I am not sure who that would be. But when you are the first overall pick and your being out scored by Nick Young on a regular basis something is wrong.
In some ways you almost would have liked to see the Heat pull away so the Raptors could have rested some guys for the game tonight in Washington. You also hope that James Johnson will be good to go. He left the game turning his ankle and did return for a brief time. He is the Raptors best defender and shot blocker and ads an element on the floor that is unique. Can Amir Johnson find that monster inside from Friday or will it be the back to reality performance we saw in Miami? Lots of questions for the Raptors but as many as the Raptors have the Wizards may have far more. The ultimate script for the Raptors in these last 3 games was to beat Washington, avoid embarrassment in Miami and then beat Washington again. The Raptors have accomplished 2/3rd's of that equation. They will look to finish the deal tonight in D.C hopefully led by Demar DeRozan.
D Is Key: Washington is not unlike Toronto in the sense of being challenged to score and they want to get out in transition and score. So transition D is at the top of the list in terms of defensive concerns. But in general this team struggles to score so do a good job on D and they not unlike the Raptors will get frustrated by failing to score.
Glass Eaters: Raptors success on Friday was largely based on rebounding. Everyone chipped in from Jose Calderon to Amir Johnson. In total the Raptors had season highs in rebounds, points in the paint and second chance points. A similar effort will lead to a similar result.
Be A Star Demar: We need to see more of the same from Demar DeRozan. He was aggressive all afternoon in Miami and got off to a good start. We even saw that effort extend to the defence as DeRozan's confidence grew. It has been a rather long slump for DeRozan and if he can get back to back solid games under his belt maybe he can turn the corner. It is vital for this team when Bargnani is out that they get a more consistent performance from Demar. When they don't get that, it makes things much more difficult when he does not show up. So show up strong.
No moral victories tonight. Only the real thing will do for the Raptors. They remain hanging around and not totally out picture for the playoffs. The schedule starts to turn for the Raptors soon with a 7 game home stand and it would be nice if they could be building some momentum heading towards that. The Raptors have not exactly been great at home at 3-6 but part of that could be the blame of this crazy schedule. Those excuses will not be there this month as the Raptors get the benefits of all they have endured early in the schedule this month. Just not today as they again get the shaft from a schedule point of view.
2/3/12
Do Raptors Have A Spell For Win?
The Raptors have had a lot of low points this season. They come off one on Wednesday and now they re-visit another tonight at the ACC. The Raptors were the first team to find a way to lose to the Washington Wizards. Since that time the Wizards have flipped off Flip and have 3 more wins to their total which stands at 4. Included in that is a road win, so at least it saves the Raptors the indignity of being the first to lose to Wizards at home as well. Wizards lone road victory comes over a team that would rival them as one the NBA's worst, with a 102-99 win over the team we affectionately in the DNB refer to has to Bobkittens. The Wizard actually have two wins over Charlotte, the only other win is an unexpected and miracle like win over the best team in the NBA the OKC Thunder. So, if the Raptors want to be considered better than Bobcats they better find a way to win tonight. If not they could be looking at how not to be the first team to lose to the Wizards 3 times. The Raptors have a home and home with the Wizards with the Miami Heat sandwiched in the middle.
First and foremost the Raptors have to figure out how the hell to score without Andrea Bargnani. 64 points is just unacceptable. Raptors have been below the the 65 point mark 3 times this season already. They have only reached 100 points twice and not surprisingly Andrea Bargnani was in the line-up for both of those games. Also one of those games was a double OT win vs Utah. Demar DeRozan has averaged 9 points less than Andrea Bargnani as the Raptors 2nd best point producer. To say that Demar's performance this year has been inconsistent would be the kindest way to put it.
What is up with Demar is up for debate. As for what is up with Amir Johnson we are not sure exactly what, but some light was shed on to why he may be having a difficult year. Dwane Casey revealed that Johnson aside from his problems on the floor had also been dealing with some personal issues. Johnson when asked about it did not want to elaborate on what these personal issues might be. He would suggest that it was in no way an excuse for his performance. But that said it is a reason. Which is more than what we have for a lot of guys on this roster. The Raptors seem to lack any kind of confidence on the offensive end of the floor. They miss shots and as in past prior to Dwane Casey's arrival that lack of success leaks to the other end of the floor. This perhaps explains the Raptors terrible starts to games as they come out cold on offence and that leads to no defence. Casey most nights can correct those issues but has failed to find the answers on the offensive side without Bargnani. Someone did ask about Bargnani yesterday and he is day to day but no where close to returning by the sounds of it.
This stretch in the sked will be an interesting test for this team. A game that you almost have to win tonight, a game that you will almost certain lose in Miami and then facing that same bad Wizards team in D.C where you have already lost. The Raptors collective pride is going to be tested in these next 3 games. The Wizards much like the Raptors are challenged to find scoring on a given night. When Nick Young leads your team in scoring most nights you have issues. Tonight's game has all the potential in the world to be one of the more ugly basketball games you might ever witness. However, stylistically appealing or not it is a win the Raptors desperately need to have. Raptors are a dismal 2-6 at home and the Wizards an equally horrific 1-9 on the road. Someone has to win tonight of this we are certain.
3 Keys:
Stay In Range: This is another way to say please do something in the first quarter. To many Raptor games have already been decided by the end of the 1st quarter. This is a team like you that struggles to score. So shots falling or not defend and hang around and chances are you will have a shot to take this game at the end.
Draw Contact: Wizards are a team with some ability to block shots. Use that aggressive nature against them and attack the basket, draw some fouls and get to the line. It helps in two ways. First you get some of there shot blockers in foul trouble making life easier for everyone. Two, you have struggled to score and at the line is an opportunity and easy points which the Raptors badly need.
Defend the glass: Be active and compete on the glass. Wizards are a team that can be challenged to find scoring just like the Raptors so don't give them 2nd chances to do it. While shooting % is a nice stat to measure defence it loses value every time you give up an offensive rebound.
So it may not be pretty but it is the best hop the Raptors have to get a win for Toronto since playing the Nets. You can feel confident that a win is not coming Sunday. So this is almost like defending yourself from a 4 game losing streak. Not to mention the Raptors owe their fans a good performance at home. There have been few of those this season. Not to mention few home games to begin with.
First and foremost the Raptors have to figure out how the hell to score without Andrea Bargnani. 64 points is just unacceptable. Raptors have been below the the 65 point mark 3 times this season already. They have only reached 100 points twice and not surprisingly Andrea Bargnani was in the line-up for both of those games. Also one of those games was a double OT win vs Utah. Demar DeRozan has averaged 9 points less than Andrea Bargnani as the Raptors 2nd best point producer. To say that Demar's performance this year has been inconsistent would be the kindest way to put it.
What is up with Demar is up for debate. As for what is up with Amir Johnson we are not sure exactly what, but some light was shed on to why he may be having a difficult year. Dwane Casey revealed that Johnson aside from his problems on the floor had also been dealing with some personal issues. Johnson when asked about it did not want to elaborate on what these personal issues might be. He would suggest that it was in no way an excuse for his performance. But that said it is a reason. Which is more than what we have for a lot of guys on this roster. The Raptors seem to lack any kind of confidence on the offensive end of the floor. They miss shots and as in past prior to Dwane Casey's arrival that lack of success leaks to the other end of the floor. This perhaps explains the Raptors terrible starts to games as they come out cold on offence and that leads to no defence. Casey most nights can correct those issues but has failed to find the answers on the offensive side without Bargnani. Someone did ask about Bargnani yesterday and he is day to day but no where close to returning by the sounds of it.
This stretch in the sked will be an interesting test for this team. A game that you almost have to win tonight, a game that you will almost certain lose in Miami and then facing that same bad Wizards team in D.C where you have already lost. The Raptors collective pride is going to be tested in these next 3 games. The Wizards much like the Raptors are challenged to find scoring on a given night. When Nick Young leads your team in scoring most nights you have issues. Tonight's game has all the potential in the world to be one of the more ugly basketball games you might ever witness. However, stylistically appealing or not it is a win the Raptors desperately need to have. Raptors are a dismal 2-6 at home and the Wizards an equally horrific 1-9 on the road. Someone has to win tonight of this we are certain.
3 Keys:
Stay In Range: This is another way to say please do something in the first quarter. To many Raptor games have already been decided by the end of the 1st quarter. This is a team like you that struggles to score. So shots falling or not defend and hang around and chances are you will have a shot to take this game at the end.
Draw Contact: Wizards are a team with some ability to block shots. Use that aggressive nature against them and attack the basket, draw some fouls and get to the line. It helps in two ways. First you get some of there shot blockers in foul trouble making life easier for everyone. Two, you have struggled to score and at the line is an opportunity and easy points which the Raptors badly need.
Defend the glass: Be active and compete on the glass. Wizards are a team that can be challenged to find scoring just like the Raptors so don't give them 2nd chances to do it. While shooting % is a nice stat to measure defence it loses value every time you give up an offensive rebound.
So it may not be pretty but it is the best hop the Raptors have to get a win for Toronto since playing the Nets. You can feel confident that a win is not coming Sunday. So this is almost like defending yourself from a 4 game losing streak. Not to mention the Raptors owe their fans a good performance at home. There have been few of those this season. Not to mention few home games to begin with.
1/10/12
Raptors Recap Of Washington Debacle With Round Ball Review
Tonight's game was awful. It was just terrible. I figure doing a recap of this one would only add to your pain. So instead we call on our friends Joey G and J.B to recap this one. They will give you some laughs and actually tell you a little about the game. So take it away guys:
Hopefully you got a laugh or two from that. The Raptors performance tonight in Washington was no laughing matter. It was pretty awful. It is the 4th time this season where the Raptors pretty much got blown out. Raptors look for a much better effort as they return home to face the Kings. Demar DeRozan really is struggling and it is something to be concerned about. Does cutting Rasaul Butler fix things no. But should Butler be gone. You bet your life. I have never been a huge fan of Linas Kleiza but he can not return soon enough. For the brave souls who want to check out the Boxscore here it is. But be warned it isn't pretty. Nothing was about the Raptors performance in Washington.
Hopefully you got a laugh or two from that. The Raptors performance tonight in Washington was no laughing matter. It was pretty awful. It is the 4th time this season where the Raptors pretty much got blown out. Raptors look for a much better effort as they return home to face the Kings. Demar DeRozan really is struggling and it is something to be concerned about. Does cutting Rasaul Butler fix things no. But should Butler be gone. You bet your life. I have never been a huge fan of Linas Kleiza but he can not return soon enough. For the brave souls who want to check out the Boxscore here it is. But be warned it isn't pretty. Nothing was about the Raptors performance in Washington.
Raptors Look To Keep Wiz Winless
No one wants to be the first team to lose to a team that is struggling. The Raptor at 4-5 need to be on high alert as they hit Washington D.C to take on the 0-8 Wizards. There are not to many teams the Raptors can say they have more talent than in the NBA. But the Wizards might be the exception to that. John Wall is great and all but when you look beyond him you do not see a lot of people that can score a ton of points. Who leads this team in scoring? Nick Young is the answer with just 15.4 points per game. What the Wizards do have is some shot blocking in the form of Blatche and McGee. But what they have most of all is desperation and that can be a positive and a negative. The positive is the Wizards lack the true confidence it takes to win. The negative is they are doing anything they can to try and win just a game. Raptors had to work extremely hard to beat Minnesota at home last night and the tank may be a little empty tonight. Andrea Bragnani played 45 minutes last night and might be at the top of that list.
3 Points for Wiz and Raptors:
Strong Starts On Both Ends- When you play a losing team the key is to make them give up. How best to accomplish that is fast starts in the first quarter, 2nd half and 4th Quarter. These are key points in any basketball game and if you can jump on the Wizards at these points they may just accept their fate. Let them build confidence and hang around and you have a fight on your hands.
Attack Attack Attack- The best way to attack a shot blocker is take it right at him. Demar DeRozan should leave his 3 point shot in his bag of tricks tonight and slash to the basket early and often. What the Raptors don't want to do his hang outside and take jump shots. Andrea Bargnani can help draw bigs out of the paint and clear the runway for himself to drive or others.
Make Wall a Scorer- John Wall wants to get others involved. So don't let him and force him to be the scorer and not the distributor. If John Wall is taking more jumpers than driving and kicking the odds the Raptors are winning is increased by a large degree. So back it in even use the zone more than normal and dare Wall to beat you as shooter.
Obviously the Raptors will need some people to step up. Ed Davis, Demar DeRozan, Barbosa all can make this easier if they can contribute something on offence in this one. These are two teams that at times are challenged to score. But the challenge for the Wizards to score is far greater. If the Raptors can score 90 points and play defence to the level they have been that should almost guarantee them a 5-5 record and 0-9 record for the Wizards.
3 Points for Wiz and Raptors:
Strong Starts On Both Ends- When you play a losing team the key is to make them give up. How best to accomplish that is fast starts in the first quarter, 2nd half and 4th Quarter. These are key points in any basketball game and if you can jump on the Wizards at these points they may just accept their fate. Let them build confidence and hang around and you have a fight on your hands.
Attack Attack Attack- The best way to attack a shot blocker is take it right at him. Demar DeRozan should leave his 3 point shot in his bag of tricks tonight and slash to the basket early and often. What the Raptors don't want to do his hang outside and take jump shots. Andrea Bargnani can help draw bigs out of the paint and clear the runway for himself to drive or others.
Make Wall a Scorer- John Wall wants to get others involved. So don't let him and force him to be the scorer and not the distributor. If John Wall is taking more jumpers than driving and kicking the odds the Raptors are winning is increased by a large degree. So back it in even use the zone more than normal and dare Wall to beat you as shooter.
Obviously the Raptors will need some people to step up. Ed Davis, Demar DeRozan, Barbosa all can make this easier if they can contribute something on offence in this one. These are two teams that at times are challenged to score. But the challenge for the Wizards to score is far greater. If the Raptors can score 90 points and play defence to the level they have been that should almost guarantee them a 5-5 record and 0-9 record for the Wizards.
3/19/11
Bargnani and DeRozan Go Off On The Wiz
It is not very often you can say this season the Raptor fans can go into a game expecting a win. But on this night in Toronto, you had every reason to feel that way with a banged up Wizards squad, that has just 1 road victory on the season in Cleveland. Raptors can relate to Wizards road struggles as they themselves have lost 14 in a row on the road the latest coming at the hands of the Pistons. But at the ACC they have been more respectable coming into last night 13-22 at home. Ok, more respectable in comparison to 5-27 on the road. If this was a college game, these are two teams that would not even make the NIT. But Raptors with a tough 5 game western road trip in front of them, starting in OKC on Sunday, really needed a win here from moral if nothing else. Amir Johnson would be back in line-up starting and wear those ugly green things again and even The Raptor was green it was scary.
Game started with a James Johnson block on John Wall but the Wizards would score off the block. Raps would get the next two buckets and Amir Johnson from James Johnson hooked up for the Amir slam. Wizards were getting in the paint and getting some easy baskets a couple McGee slams and it was 8-5. DeRozan jumper from mid range is money and it was 8-7. Amir Johnson would draw Raptors level at 10 playing with some fire early but it would eventually fade as Amir still was not at 100%. DeRozan had an early 7 points and the game was still even at 17. James Johnson as has been the book on him since joining the Raptors off to a fast start driving down the heart of the lane and giving the Raptors a 19-17 lead. Bargnani would nail a three and it was 22-19. This would be followed by a DeRozan drive score and 1 giving the Raptors a 27-21 advantage. Raptors woul maintain that 6 point lead and shot 68.8% to have a 33-27 lead. Bargnani had 12 and DeRozan 10 combining for 22 of that 33 for the Raptors.
Reserves were in the game for the Raps and Reggie to Bayless in a little roll reversal. Ed Davis coming off the bench gets a hoop. Raps a sloppy turnover and John Wall runs away from the pack and gets a slam. Another turnover and Wall passes this one ahead for the easy score and Wiz were with in 4. It would get worse as the turnovers would continue and The Wizards would take the lead at the line 39-37. Wizards were on a serious run 6-6 in the quarter and leading 43-37 time out required from Jay Triano. Wizards were outscoring the Raptors 13-4 in the early going of the second quarter. Defence was not exactly a strength for either side and it was showing. Jose a three in front of the bench out of the time out and Raptors needed that. Calderon sparked the come back he missed a lay up but DeRozan was there for the finish he later would stick a jumper and Raptors were on a 9-0 run out of time out and back in the lead. DeRozan was now heating up and getting out and running he gets a layup and was fouled and Raptors once down 6 got on a 19-2 run and led 56-45 since the time out. Whatever Jay Triano said he should bottle it and use it again. After the game he was asked about what he said but said he could not recall what he actually said. Wizards finally got back on track and cut the lead back down to just 5 at 58-53. Raptors got basket then with 4.3 seconds called a time out and a nice play for Barbosa who got to show off his speed, as he got the score and drew a blocking foul. He missed the and 1 free throw and Raptors would settle for a 62-53 halftime lead.
Raptors shooting percentage dipped slightly to 58% but that is still pretty good. But 10 turnovers for the Raptors for 16 Wizard points so you could argue the Raptors should have been up my more. three guys were doing most of the work for the Raptors, Calderon, Bargnani and DeRozan. Jose would find Demar on the break for the easy lay in. But the Wizards got it back to 5 points again. But then Bargnani would hit for 2 sparking the Raptors again to a little push. Both he and DeRozan had 20 a piece in this one. A Reggie Evans dunk and Wizards needed to re-group down 68-59. Stopping DeRozan and Bargnani would be a topic of time out for sure. But whatever was said was not working as DeRozan had 2 straight jumpers and was shooting lights out. Raptors led 72-61 and were rolling. Wizards get some good fortune as Raptors got a questionable call as they were called of inbounding the ball incorrectly. But nothing seemed to phase the Raptors as the built back their 11 point advantage thanks to Andera Bargnani and James Johnson hoops making it 80-69. Bargnani stroked another three later on and that would be the 500th of his career 54 back of Vince Carter on the Raptors all time list. DeRozan and Bargnani had a combined 56 points and led 87-75 late in the 3rd. It would end up 88-77 Raptors in the lead after 3. Samuel L Jackson was taking in this one, I think Raptors won when Drake was in the house as well. Maybe you need to invite some stars to get Raptors to win. Whatever it was the Raptors were playing like a well oiled machine on offence.
Barbosa stuck a 3 in the early going of the 4th and Raptors looking to have everything in control. But we have seen this before a Raptor game is never over till it's over right? That being said Barbosa another 3 and Raptors were up 13 with just under 9 to play leading 96-83. Raptors were doing a solid job keeping the lead so far. That was what they call fore shadowing as the Wizards once down 13 in quarter had chopped lead all the way down to just 2 points with score 98-96 and some Boos rained out at the ACC. Just 3 minutes left and like a big seed in March Madness the Raptors were just looking to hang on for the win. Kind of like Texas did earlier in the day with Tristan Thompson and Cory Joesph and Longhorns hanging on for the 85-81 win over Oakland. Raps were up by same margin 102-98. A free throw contest down the stretch helped the Raptors get lead up to 106-99. A Jose Calderon three ball would pretty much ice this one. Raptors had a 10 point lead and would hang on from there for a 116-107 win. Bargnani and DeRozan a combined 63 points and a big win for the Raptors. Face it this season any win is big.
Bargnani had 33 and DeRozan 30 while Jose Calderon did a solid job running the show with 17 points, 6 assists and a couple steals. Here is some thoughts from Demar on his night from everything from how he played to Samuel L Jackson declaring Demar his favourite all-time Raptor. Think he wanted to say Vince Carter but he knew he was in Toronto. Still DeRozan is getting respect and fans by leaps and bounds this year and having the endorsement of Mr.Jackson helps but his game is doing more to make the case this season. So here are the post game thoughts of Demar DeRozan.
That was definitely Demar DeRozan, and I definitely talked to him pre-game and you will definitely come back and listen right? Definitely, Demar DeRozan is improving and taking major strides. When he and Bargnani both have their games rolling it definitely HELPS!!!
1/13/11
"Behind Enemy Lines"
The Raptors are on a 3 game road trip after hosting the Pistons at the ACC on Friday and need to consider two things about their opponents: the depth of their bench and sustaining a lead for more than 2 quarters. We are seeing some pretty good basketball from the Raptors and their starters putting up better numbers but their downfall has been playing consistently. This week they are up against Detroit, Washington, New Orleans and San Antonio. Consider the points I mention below when watching these games. I look at each game individually and analyze what the Raptors need to do to win. Yes, even against the Spurs who are first in the Western Conference because I believe the talent is there. Let's get to it.
Detroit Pistons @ Toronto Raptors - Friday, January 14
Toronto Raptors @ Washington Wizards - Saturday, January 15
Toronto Raptors @ New Orleans Hornets - Monday, January 17
Toronto Raptors @ San Antonio Spurs - Wednesday, January 19
Detroit Pistons @ Toronto Raptors - Friday, January 14
- These two teams have played twice already this season and split the wins.
- Their last meeting on December 22, saw Detroit win 115-93 over the Raptors.
- During this game, Detroit's top 4 starters averaged about 24-28 playing minutes. Toronto's top 4 averaged a significant amount more at 33-37 minutes. Not much difference in production from the top 4, the difference came from the bench.
- Detroit Pistons Inactive List: Jonas Jerebko (right Achilles tendon - partial rupture), Terrico White (broken right foot) - both have missed 37 games so far and Ben Wallace.
- The Raptors need to watch: Richard Hamilton and Tracy McGrady who had 35 and 17 points respectively coming off the bench during their last meeting with the Raptors.
- The Key for Raptors: Go hard in the first two quarters and go into the 3rd quarter with a respectable or sizable lead. During their last meeting with Detroit, the Pistons dominated the 2nd quarter producing 38 points to the Raptors' 21. The Raptors' fought to catch up after that.
Toronto Raptors @ Washington Wizards - Saturday, January 15
- These two teams played twice this season and split the wins.
- Their last meeting on November 16th saw the Wizards win 109-94.
- Washington lead the first 3 quarters of this game. Three of their 5 starters put up double digit points, including Gilbert Arenas with 20 and Andray Blatche with 22.
- The key to this game was Washington had a more consistent and productive bench: Nick Young with 20 and Hilton Armstrong with 10.
- Washington's Inactive List: Josh Howard and Hamady Ndiaye.
- Key for the Raptors: Do not let the lead change hands and if it does change, keep it to a minimum and of course, on the Raptors side. And shut down Nick Young. Young had 43 points in the Wizards' last meeting with Sacramento which saw the lead change 5 times and tie 8 times. Be consistent and solid.
Toronto Raptors @ New Orleans Hornets - Monday, January 17
- This will be the first of three meetings for these two teams this season.
- New Orleans currently sits at 6th in the Western Conference and is on a two game win streak as of Thursday morning.
- New Orleans pulled off a 92-89 win in their last game versus Orlando where they lead the 1st and 4rth quarters.
- This will the first time the Raptors will meet their former teammate Jarret Jack since he was traded to New Orleans. He has played 27 games in a Hornets jersey - none of them as a starter. (As a Raptor this season, he played 13 games all of which were starts).
- The next time they meet after Monday's game will be on March 1st in Toronto.
- Key for the Raptors: stay strong in the first half and even stronger in the 4rth quarter. The Hornets have guys like Chris Paul and Marcus Thorton who can be counted on for key shots and for putting up solid numbers.
- Hornets Inactive List: Marcus Banks and David Anderson.
Toronto Raptors @ San Antonio Spurs - Wednesday, January 19
- This will be the first of two meetings for the Spurs and Raptors.
- San Antonio currently sits at 33-6, is in 1st place in the Western Conference and is on a 4 game win streak as of Thursday morning.
- Their last game against the Bucks saw a 91-84 result in favor of the Spurs. They only lead the 3rd and 4rth quarters of this game.
- Spurs Inactive List: James Anderson.
- Key for the Raptors: Don't count out the Spurs if you are leading at the half. They are a team who has proven their ability to re-group and score points. And forget about their record and standings - they are just like any other team in the NBA - a team to beat.
Thanks for joining me today. As always, I love hearing your comments and suggestions. Please add me on Facebook and Twitter - I am the one with a purple jacket and a red microphone. Or you can leave a comment after this article and I will add you. (Go to the friend page not the "public figure page". The "public figure page" just popped up and is not authorized).
As always have a great weekend and I will see you here on Tuesday for more NBA coverage in "NBAz in 7 Dayz".
11/11/10
"Behind Enemy Lines"
Today, "Behind Enemy Lines" takes on a whole new meaning. When I came up with the title for this feature, it was meant to highlight the rivalries and match-ups the Toronto Raptors will face throughout the NBA season. Today, on Remembrance Day, we remember the men and women who fought behind real enemy lines all around the world and how their ultimate sacrifice has changed the World we live in. In 1991, the late NBA great Manut Bol saw the war in the Sudan for the first time on television and said, "The Sudan government was killing my people. I say no, this can't be right. I have to do something". He kept this promise and returned to the Sudan where he saw the overflowing refugee camps and the devastation the war brought to his people. Manut Bol even entered the war zone to help some of the Sudan's "Lost Boys" who were starving, dying and being attacked by enemy soldiers and wild animals. Manut Bol was in the Sudan some months before his death overseeing the construction of a school and stayed despite his failing kidneys and lack of proper medication to encourage corruption-free elections throughout southern Sudan. Another NBA alumnus said goodbye to charter jets and big pay cheques for 130 degree afternoons, 12 hour work days and about $2, 600 a month. Tim James is now a soldier in the U.S Army at Camp Speicher in Iraq. In 1999, he was selected 25th overall, first round by the Miami Heat. He played only 4 games with Miami over the course of his 3 year NBA career. Yet since 2006, the Miami Heat have given a center court tribute to soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan at every home game through "The Home Strong Initiative" created by Miami Heat President, Pat Riley. My heart goes out to the soldiers still fighting and to their family and friends. My deepest sympathies go out to those soldiers (and their families) who have lost their lives standing up to corruption and injustice. These are the real heroes.
In today's feature, we will be looking at the Toronto Raptors' upcoming match-ups with Orlando, Miami, Washington and Philadelphia. All of these games are on the road, so the Raptors won't be back in town until they host Houston next Friday.
Toronto Raptors @ Orlando Magic: Friday, November 12th
The last time these two teams met was January 6th, 2010. At the time, the Orlando Magic were 24-11 on the season and the Toronto Raptors were evened out at 18-18. So with the better record and starters like Rashard Lewis, Dwight Howard, Vince Carter and Jameer Nelson, you would think this would be a cake walk for the Magic. Not so fast. Toronto won this contest by five points, 108-103. Not by much, but a win nonetheless. The Magic had Rashard Lewis and Dwight Howard putting up 24 and 20 points respectively and playing close to 40 minutes each. The Raptors had Hedo Turkoglu and Chris Bosh also playing close to these minutes and putting a respectable 17 and 18 points on the board. Now, things have changed. The Raptors are currently 1-7 with Orlando at 5-2. Orlando still has their four big starters, although Jameer Nelson has a sprained left ankle and is day-to-day and still played against Utah Wednesday. The Raptors are minus their two big contributors from their last match-up and on this week's play alone, seem to be in serious trouble against Orlando. Unless the Raptors switch to real contender mode instead of a "re-builder" mode, they have absolutely no chance to beat the Magic.
Toronto Raptors @ Miami Heat: Saturday, November 13th
How good do you think the Raptors feel about this game? In the pre-game interviews you will hear things like "We are ready play" and "Looking forward to a great game". Translation? Holy macaroni. This will be the first game the Raptors will play against Chris Bosh and the Miami Heat since Bosh left. Now the media attention will focus to Bosh and he'll get the limelight over the other big two, LeBron James and Dwayne Wade. The last time these two teams met was March 28th, 2010. Chris Bosh was playing alongside Andrea Bargnani, Atoine Wright, Jose Calderon and Sonny Weems to start for the Raptors. The Miami Heat had Dwayne Wade, Joel Anthony, Quentin Richardson, Michael Beasley and Carlos Arroyo. But if you remember this game, the Raptors held the Heat to only a 3 point win (97-94 Miami). Both had reserves putting up respectable numbers (Jarret Jack with 18 points and Udonis Haslem with 23 Miami Heat points). With a score that close and Dwayne Wade putting up 32 points that night, this game was about capitalizing on mistakes and turnovers. Will the Raptors have the same success this time around? Well, with Miami going into this game with a 5-3 record and with Bosh now on their side, it doesn't look good. On the flipside though, call me crazy, but the Raptors have to win sometime. If they choose to play to win instead of survive this game, anything is possible.
Toronto Raptors @ Washington Wizards: Tuesday, November 16th
So now Brian Colangelo and Jay Triano can have a first hand look at what might have been. John Wall of the Washington Wizards was the guy every team was gunning for and wanted on their roster. He just posted his first NBA career tripple double with 19 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists and so far has 71 points and 31 assists to start the season. He is the 6th player in NBA history to do this in his first six games besides Oscar Robsinson. Pretty impressive right? Yes, but it gets overshadowed by his team's record so far 2-4. The Washington Wizards have a relatively new coach, although one with a lot of experience. Head Coach Flip Saunders joined the Wizards in April 2009 and has spent 14 seasons in the NBA. Before coming to Washington, he lead the Detroit Pistons to a 176-70 record from 2005-2008, the highest winning percentage of any coach in their franchise history. Should the Raptors be worried? Yes and a little no. Yes because of John Wall's hot hands and a little no because history is on the Raptors' side this time. When the Raptors and Wizards last met on February 20th, the Raptors had a 31-24 record, the Wizards had a 19-34 record and the score ended in the Raptors' favour (109-104, Raptors). I know this is still in the past and the Raptors are not starting off well but neither are the Wizards and if the Raptors have any chance of snapping their loosing streak, its with the Wizards this Tuesday.
Toronto Raptors @Philadelphia 76ers: Wednesday, November 17th
Here's another game where history is on their side but I'm not sure it will produce the same result. The Toronto Raptors and Philadelphia 76ers last met on April 3rd with the win going to the Raptors (128-123). The Raptors had a 38-37 record at the time with the 76ers struggling with a 26-50 record. The 76ers still have starters Andre Iguodala, Jrue Holiday, Elton Brand and Jason Kapono from that game and have now added Rookie Evan Turner who in his last three games has averaged 33 minutes and 11.3 points per game. Not bad. Do we consider the Gilbert Arena factor? And whether or not he decides to show up in mind, body and spirit? Currently, the 76ers are really no better than the Raptors with a 2-6 record. They have won one more game - big deal. If the Raptors play at full strength against Philadelphia, this will be their second real chance at winning on this road trip.
Thanks for joining me this week - see you on Tuesday for more NBA coverage in "Jiggly Bits".
In today's feature, we will be looking at the Toronto Raptors' upcoming match-ups with Orlando, Miami, Washington and Philadelphia. All of these games are on the road, so the Raptors won't be back in town until they host Houston next Friday.
Toronto Raptors @ Orlando Magic: Friday, November 12th
The last time these two teams met was January 6th, 2010. At the time, the Orlando Magic were 24-11 on the season and the Toronto Raptors were evened out at 18-18. So with the better record and starters like Rashard Lewis, Dwight Howard, Vince Carter and Jameer Nelson, you would think this would be a cake walk for the Magic. Not so fast. Toronto won this contest by five points, 108-103. Not by much, but a win nonetheless. The Magic had Rashard Lewis and Dwight Howard putting up 24 and 20 points respectively and playing close to 40 minutes each. The Raptors had Hedo Turkoglu and Chris Bosh also playing close to these minutes and putting a respectable 17 and 18 points on the board. Now, things have changed. The Raptors are currently 1-7 with Orlando at 5-2. Orlando still has their four big starters, although Jameer Nelson has a sprained left ankle and is day-to-day and still played against Utah Wednesday. The Raptors are minus their two big contributors from their last match-up and on this week's play alone, seem to be in serious trouble against Orlando. Unless the Raptors switch to real contender mode instead of a "re-builder" mode, they have absolutely no chance to beat the Magic.
Toronto Raptors @ Miami Heat: Saturday, November 13th
How good do you think the Raptors feel about this game? In the pre-game interviews you will hear things like "We are ready play" and "Looking forward to a great game". Translation? Holy macaroni. This will be the first game the Raptors will play against Chris Bosh and the Miami Heat since Bosh left. Now the media attention will focus to Bosh and he'll get the limelight over the other big two, LeBron James and Dwayne Wade. The last time these two teams met was March 28th, 2010. Chris Bosh was playing alongside Andrea Bargnani, Atoine Wright, Jose Calderon and Sonny Weems to start for the Raptors. The Miami Heat had Dwayne Wade, Joel Anthony, Quentin Richardson, Michael Beasley and Carlos Arroyo. But if you remember this game, the Raptors held the Heat to only a 3 point win (97-94 Miami). Both had reserves putting up respectable numbers (Jarret Jack with 18 points and Udonis Haslem with 23 Miami Heat points). With a score that close and Dwayne Wade putting up 32 points that night, this game was about capitalizing on mistakes and turnovers. Will the Raptors have the same success this time around? Well, with Miami going into this game with a 5-3 record and with Bosh now on their side, it doesn't look good. On the flipside though, call me crazy, but the Raptors have to win sometime. If they choose to play to win instead of survive this game, anything is possible.
Toronto Raptors @ Washington Wizards: Tuesday, November 16th
So now Brian Colangelo and Jay Triano can have a first hand look at what might have been. John Wall of the Washington Wizards was the guy every team was gunning for and wanted on their roster. He just posted his first NBA career tripple double with 19 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists and so far has 71 points and 31 assists to start the season. He is the 6th player in NBA history to do this in his first six games besides Oscar Robsinson. Pretty impressive right? Yes, but it gets overshadowed by his team's record so far 2-4. The Washington Wizards have a relatively new coach, although one with a lot of experience. Head Coach Flip Saunders joined the Wizards in April 2009 and has spent 14 seasons in the NBA. Before coming to Washington, he lead the Detroit Pistons to a 176-70 record from 2005-2008, the highest winning percentage of any coach in their franchise history. Should the Raptors be worried? Yes and a little no. Yes because of John Wall's hot hands and a little no because history is on the Raptors' side this time. When the Raptors and Wizards last met on February 20th, the Raptors had a 31-24 record, the Wizards had a 19-34 record and the score ended in the Raptors' favour (109-104, Raptors). I know this is still in the past and the Raptors are not starting off well but neither are the Wizards and if the Raptors have any chance of snapping their loosing streak, its with the Wizards this Tuesday.
Toronto Raptors @Philadelphia 76ers: Wednesday, November 17th
Here's another game where history is on their side but I'm not sure it will produce the same result. The Toronto Raptors and Philadelphia 76ers last met on April 3rd with the win going to the Raptors (128-123). The Raptors had a 38-37 record at the time with the 76ers struggling with a 26-50 record. The 76ers still have starters Andre Iguodala, Jrue Holiday, Elton Brand and Jason Kapono from that game and have now added Rookie Evan Turner who in his last three games has averaged 33 minutes and 11.3 points per game. Not bad. Do we consider the Gilbert Arena factor? And whether or not he decides to show up in mind, body and spirit? Currently, the 76ers are really no better than the Raptors with a 2-6 record. They have won one more game - big deal. If the Raptors play at full strength against Philadelphia, this will be their second real chance at winning on this road trip.
Thanks for joining me this week - see you on Tuesday for more NBA coverage in "Jiggly Bits".
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