The Raptors' response to their loss to the Rockets should make for intriguing viewing over the next few games. (via michaelgrange)
TORONTO – More often than you might expect, Toronto Raptors regular-season games seem to lack the kind of meaning that can keep a team focused.
Even with the Houston Rockets and James Harden in town – undeniably a prime-time matchup – the Raptors were playing it cool.Stream Raptors basketball on Sportsnet NOW A little clearer objective and maybe the Raptors would be down a half-game in the race for the top seed rather than down 2.5 games with 17 to play.
More concerning was the Raptors were largely contained by the Rockets as they shot just 42-per-cent from the floor and 9-of-31 from three for the game. Kawhi Leonard lead Toronto with 26 but was only 10-of-22 from the floor. The early moments of the game were sloppy on both sides, the track meet that might have been expected not quite materializing. Kawhi Leonard – rested after having Sunday off – came out on a roll, hitting four of his first five as he was able to force switches and exploit them. The Raptors were able to keep Harden contained. They trailed 23-18 after a first quarter that was notable mainly because it was low-scoring.
Harden’s incredible 34-game streak where he topped 30 points – averaging 40.6-points along the way – was by necessity. But with Chris Paul and Clint Capela back, the addition of Austin Rivers and Kenneth Faried off the bench and the contributions of holdover Gerald Green, the Rockets are looking like a threat again and came to Scotiabank Arena as the hottest team in the NBA, having won five straight and are 27-11 since their low point. They want more.
“This is a championship level team, no doubt about it,” said Raptors head coach Nurse before the game. “Injuries, they’ve had more than their share with key people. I think it’s a great test for us, I think I’m looking forward to the test. This is a team you could see in the finals, without question.”
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