The Toronto Raptors hit the road briefly tonight to take on the lowly Cleveland Cavaliers. Behind the defensive identity the Raptors (31-25) have developed this season thanks to Coach Dwane Casey, they are 6 games above .500 for the first time in 4 seasons. The Raptors are on the verge of moving 7 games above .500 for the first time in 6 years. Kyrie Irving and the Cavs (22-35) are struggling this season, and might be without some key players in their rotation; Anderson Varejao (back), Dion Waiters (knee), and CJ Miles (ankle). Good news for the Raptors, after Amir Johnson rolled his ankle against the Orlando Magic Sunday night, and did not return, he will be in uniform tonight. The Raps will look to repeat last Friday’s performance and completely lock down Irving, and ultimately blow out the Cavs.
@Eric__Smith: Amir will play tonight. #rtz #raptors
For the Raptors to continue to build upon their Atlantic Division lead, and 3rd seed in the conference, we take a look at the…
Cage’s Keys To The Game
1. Come Out With Energy
The Raptors have not been consistent with their energy in the first half. As a result, they’ve been making things harder on themselves, trying to climb out of holes they’ve dug so far in. It is quite tough to get energy to play against teams like the Magic, and the Cavs, but good teams are able to put them away early.
2. Contain Kyrie Irving
Last week the Raps were able to hold Irving to 17 points on a poor 3-16 shooting. This time, the Raptors may not have the same success, considering how talented a player Uncle Drew is. However, they will need to contain him in order for the Raptors to disrupt the Cavs’ offence. The Raptors most likely will cross-match, with Irving being guarded mostly by Kyle Lowry and Terrence Ross. Both are fantastic defenders who did an great job last time around.
3. Take Care of the Basketball
The Raptors have not been taking care of the basketball in their past 4 games since the All-Star break, averaging 14 turnovers. Last game against the Magic, they had 23 turnovers, which eclipsed their season-high. Turning the ball over against the Cavs will make it a challenge for the Raptors to get into any rhythm, due to the athletes they have that can get out and run.
X-Factor: DeMar DeRozan
DeMar, the All-Star, struggled the last time these two teams played. He scored only 14 points on 5-of-14 shooting. It’s up to DeMar to pick things up on the road, and will have to attack Luol Deng (who will most likely be his defensive match-up), to make him work. Deng is a tough cover, and hopefully DeRozan has acclimatized himself to Deng’s gritty D. He’s going to have all the defensive attention tonight; he has to let the game come to him, and continue the play-making roll he’s been on this season.
