The Toronto Raptors (14-24) head home for this one and try to snap their two-game losing streak against the Chicago Bulls (21-15). The Air Canada Centre will play host to a defensively stifling Bulls team coached by Tom Thibodeau. After coming off a disappointing loss against the Brooklyn Nets the Raptors are now even more banged up. Jose Calderon and Alan Anderson both have minor injuries and are potentially game time decisions. In order for the Raptors to match Chicago’s defensive tempo Kyle Lowry might have to man-up on his bum ankle for some extended minutes.
The Cage’s 5 Key’s to the game
1.Get DeMar DeRozan going
DeMar DeRozan has not been playing up to standards these last few games. He drives to the rim relentlessly but doesn’t seem to be getting the calls he wants. With matchups against less defensive minded guards like Marco Bellinelli and Richard Hamilton.
2.Get Bench Production
Something has gone terribly wrong with the scoring off the bench for the Raptors. Other than Amir Johnson (who could’ve started)no one has been playing excellent basketball as of late. The bench has failed to show up.
3. Attack The Paint Early
The Raptors need to play Chicago’s game, but do it better. With aggressive paint penetration the Raptors can use their athleticism to their advantage and get the Chicago bigs out of the game early.
4.Contain the Beasts Below
Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer always seem to have their way when it comes to facing the Raptors. Their non-stop intensity, Boozer’s mid-range and Noah’s IQ manages to deplete the Raptor teams of the past. This is their first matchup of the season, hit them hard early and let them know they’re in Toronto.
5. Force them to the Perimeter
The Bulls run a system that works inside-out. If the Raptors are able to disrupt their interior passing, and potentially go under some screens, the Raps can compete and hold their own.
X-Factor
Tonight’s X-Factor is Raptors rookie Terrence Ross. The last few games he hasn’t been able to get his shot off, however Dwane Casey gave him some good minutes in the game against Brooklyn. His youth and skill level favors well in this matchup, expect him to be matched up with Hamilton in spurts.
Photo Cred: (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
