Raptors Cage

Game Day Preview: Raptors look to get back on track vs Celtics

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NBA: Boston Celtics at Toronto Raptors

Fresh off a loss to the Brooklyn Nets, the Toronto Raptors are set to square off against the Boston Celtics tonight. The Atlantic rivals are in very different positions. The Raps have clinched the Atlantic title and home court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. The Celtics on the other hand, are in a dogfight with the Nets for the 8th seed. By all accounts this is a game the Raps should win, however with Amir Johnson and Kyle Lowry likely both out, the Raps being on a back to back, and the Celtics fighting for their lives, this could be a tough one. This should be a heated one because the Celtics are 9th gunning for 8th, and the Raps are 4th and (likely) gunning for 3rd.

My bet is on Casey working his starting five to improve their defensive toughness and ball movement – two areas the Raps have struggled in the past few months. Boston will look to dominate the glass with their size, and move the Raps defenders out of positions with their long rage shooters.

Let’s get to the Cage’s Keys to the Game

Kelly is Key

Kelly Olynyk, a Mississauga native, returns to play in front of hometown fans. This will be a tough assignment as Olynyk is capable of scoring in the paint and from downtown. In the January meeting between these teams Olynyk went off for 23 points shooting 50% from beyond the ark and a whopping 6-9 down-low. His minutes may be restricted as he is still working his way back to form from the ankle sprain he suffered earlier. However, the Raptors bigs will have to hustle to chase him off the arc and still defend the paint (I am looking at you JV!!)

The Smart Money

Marcus Smart is one of my favourite young players to watch right now. Yes his shot selection is sloppy at best, and the free-throw line gives him fits. However, he is a ball-hawk who creates turnovers and he will be a star.  Watch for him to get minutes in the 30’s and play some solid D against Canada’s team.

Battle of the Boards

Even though the Raps won the last two meetings against this team they were out rebounded 58-30 (yes you read that correctly), and 54-53. With an eye towards the playoffs, where every team takes their defense up a notch, the Raps need to establish themselves on the glass. Pat, Amir, JV, Psycho-T you’re up!

X-Factor: Jonas Valanciunas

JV has been on a short-leash for much of the season. He has been quickly benched if he struggles on the defensive end. He is also made some bad decisions leading to early foul trouble again placing him on the bench. For this game specifically JV needs to find another gear to keep up with the defensive rotation and make sure he gets back in time to fight for position on the glass.

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