Celtics just the test Raptors need

The Boston Celtics and the Toronto Raptors, the top two teams in the NBA’s Eastern Conference, square off for the second time in four scheduled meetings Tuesday at the ACC.

At the moment the Celtics own a two-game edge on the Raptors with Toronto possessing two games in hand.

DeMar DeRozan, whose buzzerbeating shot rimmed out in the first meeting with the Celtics who won 95- 94, says games like Tuesday’s are just that much more enjoyable for everyone involved.

“It’s one of them games you look forward to, it’s been a while since we played them, they’re the top team in our conference, you always want to battle with the best teams in your conference and in your league and to( night) is an opportunity for us to face that and you look forward to it,” DeRozan said.

Adding to the anticipation is the makeup of this Celtics team from the guy calling the shots from the bench to the players he is directing.

“They have a great coach,” DeRozan said, referring to Brad Stevens, “the talent that they have on their team is incredible from the young guys to having a player like Kyrie Irving on their team. It’s just amazing, the camaraderie that they have when you watch them play.”

Irving has missed the past three games for the Celtics but he is coming off what Stevens called a very good practice and will travel with the team, so it’s at least very likely that he plays.

Marcus Morris sat out the last game with a bruised hip but is expected to play.