UPDATE – Dirk Nowitzki will not play.
The Toronto Raptors are back at it again tonight as they hope to sweep the seasons series against the Dallas Mavericks tonight. The last time these two teams met, the Raptors came out with a huge overtime victory on the road which was sparked one of the best stretches of basketball in franchise history. Whenever Vince Carter makes his return to the Air Canada Centre, something dramatic always seems to happen. So look out for that Carter-esque moment that will either trigger the sweetest or most bitter memories for some Raptors fans. The Mavericks are sitting 7th in the Western Conference, but have a pedestrian record on the road of 11-11. The Raptors are in a mini-slump and should use this second game against the Mavs to get back on track.
Cage’s Keys to the Game
Perimeter Protection
Last time these two teams met the Raptors allowed 108 points by the Mavs on 50%. To be an elite defensive team, that shooting percentage needs to be brought down dramatically. Maybe it was because the trade had just happened and no one knew the defensive schemes? Yeah, that must it. Anyways, let’s just hope Toronto keeps the likes of Monta Ellis and this Shane Larkin fellow out of the paint; they’re dangerous as facilitators.
No Love for Vince
Vince Carter‘s stats last in the last matchup vs. the Toronto Raptors: 0 pts (0-1 FG), 2 reb, 3 ast, 6 TO in 18mins. Keep it this way, and Raptors fans stays relatively happy tonight.
Composure
The Raptors have lost back-to-back games against opponents they should’ve beaten. It’s not like these games are blowouts, however the outcome is usually determined by some sort of unforced error or bad decision down the stretch. Hopefully Dwane Casey will hold his team accountable, and recognize when it’s time to yank the leash.
Inside out
Working inside-out will force the Mavs to commit to protecting the interior, and potentially even send a double-team down low if things get out of hand.There’s no need to start the game bombing shots from the perimeter. In their last matchup, Jonas Valanciunas and Amir Johnson combined for 33 pts and 19 rebs in a winning effort. If the Raptors execute expect lanes and corner threes to open up.
Home Crowd Advantage
There seem to be just a few former Raptors on this Mavericks squad, so the ACC is sure to be buzzing tonight. A lot of the newer Raptors may not be familiar with the energy that comes with these type of games. Hopefully the Raptors are able to channel the animosity of the most hurt and tortured Raptors fans in the building tonight. For good luck.
X-Factor: DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan has been a little up and down these past few games. His number’s may be nice, however his efficiency has dipped slightly. It was against the Mavericks that DeRozan discovered his inner distributor dishing out 9 assists. If the shot’s not falling, DeMar will be able to contribute in other ways to help his team, but he has to realize sooner than later.
