Raptors Cage

Game Day Preview: Raptors Face Kings In Familiar Matchup

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The Toronto Raptors are set to host the Sacramento Kings in a homecoming of sorts, tonight at 7PM EST. Rudy Gay, Quincy Acy and Aaron Gray will make their first return to the Air Canada Centre since the trade for Patrick Patterson, John Salmons, Chuck Hayes and Greivis Vasquez on December 9th. In the stretch of games following the multi-player deal, the Raptors (33-26) have compiled a 26-14 record, while the Kings (22-39) have gone 16-25. Gay’s departure certainly changed Toronto’s overall attitude and on-court cohesion for the better. His offensive game just did not fit Dwane Casey‘s style, and the veteran forward was blamed for the team’s early struggle and lack of success. In spite of this, Gay maintains respect for his former club.

There’s no hard feelings. There’s no ill-intention. I have no problem with these guys at all. I’m happy for them. These are my friends.

Toronto fans might not be so forgiving. Gay’s arrival brought much hype and renewed faith in a team that needed a legitimate superstar. It was nothing more than false hope. He shot a mere 38.8% from the field before the trade and failed to produce a winning record. Admittedly, he did not fulfill the expectations set by the organization.

Change is for the better, for both parties. I was inefficient when I was here. I’m not anymore. I was when I was here.

Emotions will be running high tonight on both sides. Acy and Gray were fan favourites in Toronto (mostly Acy). Salmons and Hayes served Sacramento for two seasons. Simply put, the Raptors and Kings both know their opponents well. Patterson honestly addressed this situation:

“I think a couple of guys were too friendly just because they had relationships with those guys on opposing teams. They didn’t want to be too physical with them; they didn’t want to foul. They still were on that ‘you’re my boy’ level. We can’t play like that. As soon as we step foot in this arena—no matter who is on that team—they have to be our enemy.

Steve Novak demonstrated the close bond that was broken on the day of the trade. He tweeted a heartfelt goodbye to his teammates.

The last time these teams met, the Kings came out on top in one of the most controversial endings to an NBA game in recent memory. With his team trailing by six in the closing moments, Kyle Lowry hit a clutch three-pointer, only to be called for an offensive foul and ejected.

The call was never acknowledged by the NBA, and it stands as one of the many frustrating moments in Raptors history. Tonight, the home team will seek revenge. Combined with the sentiment of former teammates reuniting and the momentum carried over from Sunday’s huge victory over the Golden State Warriors, this game could have a playoff atmosphere. With all that being said, let’s get into the Cage’s Keys to the Game:

Don’t fall into a slump

Sacramento is ranked 18th in the league in field goal shooting. Compared to Toronto (ranked 23rd), they have a slight edge in this category. If the Raptors fail to produce offensively, the opposing team will make them pay. Look for key performances from DeMar DeRozan and Lowry- they will try to outplay Gay and prove their superiority to Toronto fans.

Rebound (literally)

Although they came away with a win on Sunday, the Raptors were out-rebounded by the Warriors, 41-39. With big man DeMarcus Cousins on the other side, Toronto needs to control the boards for all 48 minutes to stand a chance tonight. Cousin averages a dominant 11.6 RPG- he must be contained at all costs.

Rebound (figuratively)

This game all comes down to emotions. Whichever team is able to push it aside and focus on playing basketball will win. The trade stirred up both teams. Relationships were hurt and blame was placed. The last meeting between these teams had a bitter ending and many fans are not over it. The Raptors have to follow Patterson’s philosophy and concentrate on just the game.

X-Factor: DeMar DeRozan

DeRozan has been on a tear lately. He racked up 32 points and 6 assists in the previous game, and should continue his stellar production today. Look for the fifth-year man to find scoring opportunities at every chance he gets- he will be the focal point on offense.

 

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