The Toronto Raptors (8-7) started a very difficult 3-game road trip tonight in Los Angeles, where they took on Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, and the Lakers (13-1). The Lakers are 8-1 at the Staples Center, while the Raps are 4-3 away from the ACC. The Raptors were given a huge blow with the subtraction of Jermaine O’Neal from the starting line-up, still suffering from an ankle injury sustained a week ago. The Raptors were hoping for big performances from Bargnani, Moon, and Joey Graham to keep this one competitive. They will need to pick up the load left with JO’s absence. Continue Reading

Next up for the Raptors on Sunday are the high-flying Los Angeles Lakers who bring a 13 – 1 record to the Staples Center. The Raptors are starting a short 3 game road trip and look to carry the momentum of two straight victories against the Bobcats and the Hawks to close out a home stand. The other games are against the Chauncey Billups led Nuggets in Denver and then against Carlos Boozer and Deron Williams and the Jazz at in Utah. Sunday night will be a very difficult game against one of the top 2 teams in the league. Continue Reading

So, the past 4 games have given us a very deep look into this team, and it is very much in a state of flux. Our 4 main guys right now are Andrea Bargnani, Jose Calderon, who is hurting, Jermaine O’Neal, who is hurting as well, and Chris Bosh. Over the past week, their numbers look pretty good with Chris averaging over 30 points per game and 10.5 rebounds. He is shooting 54% from the floor with his first 3 point shot of the season, and 83% from the line. Andrea has stepped up his production as he continues to improve while adjusting to the SF position scoring 18.25 per game, 6 rebounds and 50% from outside the arc. Continue Reading

It seems that the Raptors season, again, hinges on one Andrea Bargnani. De ja vu as I remember saying this exact thing last season when the Raptors were “deeper” but had no clear # 2. This year, they have their second 20 point scorer, no controversy at the point - but the bench is thin. Continue Reading

So, as promised, here is my revised order of how I see the west playing out this season based on off season moves made (or not made) to date. Continue Reading