FIVE GAMES YOU SHOULDN’T MISS
The Raptors begin the difficult task of topping their best season in franchise history Wednesday against the Detroit Pistons, but that’s not the most exciting game on their schedule. Here are five home dates to circle in the coming weeks and months.
Raptors vs. Cavaliers, Oct. 28
The Raptors’ second home game of the season is a rematch of where it all ended in May, against LeBron James and the NBA champion Cleveland Cavaliers. James was booed mercilessly by the electric crowd at the ACC, but still gave them high praise when the series was over. It’ll be early in the season but the energy should be high in the building when the ball goes up.
Raptors vs. Warriors, Nov. 16
Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and the rest of an incredibly talented (and maligned) Warriors team will be the premiere draw wherever they go. Golden State won both games against the Raptors last year, but the Raptors played the 73-win squad tight and almost broke the Warriors’ then 20-game win streak. This will be the most in-demand ticket on the Raptors schedule all season.
Raptors vs. Grizzlies, Nov. 30
Vince Carter says he’s not done yet, that he’d like to get two more years out of his still highly athletic body before he calls it quits. Now 39, and in the final year of his contract, you have to wonder if this might be the final time Carter steps on the court where he launched his career and inspired a generation of young Canadian players. This game is a sentimental draw for Toronto fans, who may be saying goodbye to an iconic part of the team’s history.
Raptors vs. Timberwolves, Dec. 8
Andrew Wiggins returning home is always a draw and he rarely disappoints, averaging 23 points against the Raptors so far in his career. But the cast around him continues to improve, making the long unsuccessful franchise a compelling team this year. Karl-Anthony Towns has ’future MVP’ written all over him and Minnesota has another talented rookie on deck, in third overall pick, guard Kris Dunn. Then there’s Zach LaVine, who’s worked hard to be known as more than a dunker, but can still provide a oncein-a-lifetime highlight.
Raptors vs. Magic, Jan. 29
Bismack Biyombo’s numbers weren’t overwhelming — 5.5 points, 8.1 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game — but his hustle, athleticism and personality won Raptors fans over last season, especially in the East final. Enjoying the riches of a four-year, $72-million deal with the Magic, Biyombo will make his first return to Toronto, looking to block shots and “borrow” Dikembe Mutombo’s finger wag as much as possible. Chris O’Leary