What is it about Washington and Toronto that always leads to close games and crazy finishes during the regular season??
Bismack Biyombo or BB8 will go down as the hero of this game. Rebounding like crazy on both the offensive and defensive glass. He clocked up another double/double performance.
The Wizards were without former Raptor Alan Anderson and John Wall's back court ball-mate Bradley Beal.
DeMarre Caroll and Jonas Valanciunas both returned to the starting lineup, though they both were seemingly on a numbers watch as both only played under 30 minutes. Raptors hold out to win 94-91
Tonight's Raptor Track!
The Who - "Pinball Wizard"
Such a classic song, can't believe I haven't used this one for the Wizards games yet, huh. There Ya go
Raptors now 20-13 going into 2016. Wizards now 14-16
Back from the holidays!! Hope everyone had a great time and enjoyed some Holiday Hoops! The Raptors are fresh off a definitive win in Milwaukee and traveled via bus to Chicago to take on their Conference rival Bulls
From the outside looking in the Bulls appear to be doing alright, albeit 7th in the East, but there are swirling rumours that behind the scenes things are not so hunky dory. Team All-Star Jimmy Butler was recently quoted as saying they need to be coached harder putting the spotlight on first season coach Fred Hoiberg who replaced Tom Thibadeau
Chicago mainstay Joakim Noah will miss tonight's game due to a shoulder strain, which is interesting considering Jonas Valanciunas will return tonight for the Raptors and could have a big game if there is no other big to check him
DeMarre Carroll also returned for the Raptors on Saturday, coming off the bench scoring 7 points and getting 2 boards. Easing him back into it, but also careful not disrupt a starting unit who did well in his absence.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Wilco - "Via Chicago"
Wilco is a band that managed to be critically acclaimed and amass a large following and still avoid the mainstream spotlight. "Via Chicago" is a hauntingly beautiful tune where singer Jeff Tweedy romanticizes a dream he has about murdering his lover.
Raptors 4th in the East 19-12. Bulls 7th in the East 16-12
Another tough loss on Sunday night came against the Kings. The Raptors host the Dallas Mavericks in an attempt to get the series sweep, before heading to Milwaukee on Christmas Day.
Some good news in Raptorland as it appears Jonas Valanciunas will be back sooner than later. He has been cleared to resume practicing after missing 15 games with a broken hand. Does this mean he'll be available to play tonight? Unlikely, but there's hope
Dirk Nowitzki currently sits 7th on the NBA's all time scorer list behind Shaquille O'Neal. 29 points for the big German tonight will tie and 30 will mean Dirk passes Diesel. Will it happen? Who on the Raptors is going to step up and shut Dirk down? Scola? Patterson?
Last time these two teams met, the Raptors came away with the victory, but Dwight Powell had a great night. Let's see how the young Canadian does tonight, love seeing homegrown talent improve
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Dallas Holm - "Rise Again"
More often than not when the Raptors play the Mavericks it's a Country/Western song that gets featured. No problem here, I like to keep the song selection diverse, but with a name like the Dallas Mavericks...what other genre is really gonna step up? Dallas Holm is also a Christian musician so i'm getting a twofer here...
Raptors 5th in the East 17-12. Mavericks 4th in the West 15-12
Friday night DeMar DeRozan finally overcame a white whale in his career by defeating Chris Bosh. Until then, in his six years in the league, the Raptors had never beat the Miami Heat while Bosh was active on their roster. The score was 108-94. Tonight the Sacramento Kings come to town.
Masai Ujiri has been very active utilizing the Raptors' new D-League affiliate team. It's handy having the Raptors 905 in close vicinity to Toronto so they can effortlessly send players back and forth between the 2 rosters. Today Anthony Bennett played at the 905 game at 2pm and is expected to be present at the ACC when the Kings come to visit at 6pm
The Kings have had their problems in past seasons, and while this year hasn't been perfect for them the addition of Rajon Rondo and rookie Willie Cauley-Stein has given Sacramento fans some hope.
DeMarcus Cousins is a player that always has big games against the Raptors and with Jonas Valanciunas out, Bismack Biyombo and possibly Bebe are going to have to play at their peack to contain him...especially since he's added the 3 ball to his game.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
The Kings - "This Beat Goes On/Switchin' To Glide"
The Kings were a Canadian rock band formed in the late 70's in British Columbia. While they toured with some artists like Bob Seger. Eric Clapton and the Beach Boys, they failed to gain much recognition beyond their first single "This Beat Goes On".
Raptors 4th in the East 17-11. Kings 12th in the West 10-16
I am predicting a tough stretch of games for the Raptors before they get a well deserved break over the Christmas Holidays. Tonight they face a tough Heat team in a building where wins have been hard to come by for the Raptors
Though they some how took the Hornets to an over time lost last night, the Raptors need to find someone else to score the ball consistently besides Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan.
The Heat are on a 3 game win streak after losing 3 in a row and you can beat they are licking the lips at the sight of the Raptors coming into their home on a second night of a back to back.
Though there are still some questions surrounding players like Hassan Whiteside and Goran Dragic, the Heat are starting to click with other players like Josh McRoberts, Chris Bosh, Luol Deng and of course Dwyane Wade.
Tonight's Raptor Track!!
Miami Sound Machine & Gloria Estefan - "Conga"
How come I haven't done the Miami Sound Machine for Heat Games? Seems like a given and a great blast from the past!!
Raptors 6th in the East 16-11! Heat 4th in the East 15-9
The road swing continues as the Raptors hope to bounce back after a disappointing showing in Indiana. Tonight we are in Charlotte where the Raptor have had their troubles before.
Charlotte will be without their starting center Al Jefferson as he is serving a 5-game suspension for violating the NBA's anti-drug policy
Though DeMarre Carroll and Jonas Valanciunas traveled with the team, it's highly unlikely that either one goes tonight. Bismack Biyombo will face off against his old team and be matched up with another up and coming center in the league Cody "Big Handsome" Zeller.
The Raptors also get to see a familiar face in Tyler Hansbrough who signed with his hometown Hornets in the off season. He'll be sure to get some playing time since Jefferson is out
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Little Chief - "North Carolina"
Following in the footsteps of some indie/folk bands like Mumford & Sons, The Lumineers and The Felice Brothers, here comes Litte Chief out of Fayetteville, AR. Formed in 2013 their new album Lion's Den has been turning some heads. "North Carolina" is from their first album Somewhere Near The River
Raptors 5th in the East 16-10. Hornets 6th in the East 14-10
Though we may not sit atop the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors have the most wins in the East and are number two behind only the Cleveland Cavaliers. Tonight they head back on the road to take on the Indiana Pacers
Raptors are on the second game of a back to back after taking care of the Philadelphia 76ers at home last night 96-76. Still without 2 of their starters in DeMarre Carroll and JV.
Indiana has been one of the hottest teams in the East, but have cooled down significantly losing 3 of their last 4 games. That's no reason to take them lightly though.
The only injury for Indy is Myles Turner who is out for at least another month with an injured thumb. The Pacers have a ton of weapons though in Monta Ellis, George Hill and Paul George who is having an MVP caliber year.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
R. Dean Taylor - "Indiana Wants Me"
Perhaps the only Canadian signed to the legendary record company Motown during the 60's and 70's he found more success in the UK than he did in his native North America. His biggest US hit was "Indiana Wants Me" which hit #1 there as well as Canada and hit #2 in the UK
Raptors 2nd in East 16-9. Pacers 5th in East 13-9.
Well the homestand keeps on winding on! Raptors are fresh off an impressive win against the 2nd best team in the league, The San Antonio Spurs and await the arrival of the Milwaukee Bucks for some Friday night action
The Bucks are coming off a home loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, which featured an absolute baptismal from DeAndre Jordan on Greg Monroe. You better believe the Bucks will be looking for blood
Kyle Lowry had another hot night on Wednesday against San Antonio and is playing like an All Star for two years in a row.
Speaking of All Star...the voting is now open, so get over to nba.com and vote for all your Toronto Raptors...at least Lowry.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Rammstein - "Buck Dich"
Rammstein are one of Germany's biggest musical exports. Being in the game since about 1994 they're yet to lose a member of the 6 man line up. Some of their most well known songs are "Du Hast", "Sonne" and "Rosenrot" "Buck Dich" is off their album Sehnsucht and it translates to "Bend Over". Which is what we'd like Milwaukee to do tonight!
Raptors 3rd in the East 14-9. Bucks 13th in East 9-14
The homestand continues and the Raptors are coming off a good win over the Los Angeles Lakers. The competition ain't getting any easier though as Toronto hosts the dominant San Antonio Spurs.
Raptors defeated the Lakers without DeMarre Carroll who saw a specialist for some knee pain. The specialist took him out of basketball action indefinitely for a contusion. No word on his return. Lucas Nogueira also missed the game because of an ankle sprain. He's day to day
The Spurs are hot off a game against the Philadelphia 76ers where San Antonio sat their starters Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and others. The Spurs ended up disintegrating the 76ers 119-68. It was sort of a coming out party for their 7'3" Serbian giant Boban Marjanovic, think I have that right, who scored 18 points and won the hearts of a tired Philly crowd
This will be Cory Joseph's first test against his former team and will be looking to have a stand up night. He might not be up against Kawhi Leonard who is dealing with an illness.
Tonight's Raptor Track!!
DJ Quik - "Spur Of The Moment" feat. Ludacris
Like DeMar DeRozan, DJ Quik hails from Compton, California. He's a well known producer, MC, Rapper and DJ who got his name from being able to produce an album quickly. The list of people he's worked with is a veritable who's-who list of the American hip-hop scene. The list is peppered with names like Snoop Dogg, 2Pac, Dr. Dre and on this track from his 2005 album Trauma, Ludacris.
Raptors sixth in the East 13-9. Spurs second in the West 18-4.
Raptors couldn't close out the game and break the Warriors' streak, losing the game 112-109. They are currenty 0-2 on this homestand and hope to turn that around as the Los Angeles Lakers make their only stop to TO this year
This will be the last time Kobe Bryant will play at the ACC as a part of the Lakers. He has announced that he is retiring after 19 years in the league. I'm sure he'll be apart of the All Star festivities when Toronto hosts that in the new year, but from a regular season game perspective this is it for the Black Mamba.
Lakers' guard Nick Young got himself ejected from yesterday's game against the Detroit Pistons after reacting angrily at a foul by Anthony Tolliver. No word that he has been suspended yet, but there are swirling rumours that Byron Scott plans to bench him anyway. Another take away is that the Lakers are on the 2nd game of a back to back. Raptors did not play yesterday
A huge performance form Kyle Lowry against the Warriors that saw him put up a career high 44 points. That can't continue forever if we want this franchise to be successful. Other people need to contribute on a nightly basis. I have faith that they will.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Smashing Pumpkins - "Farewell & Goodnight"
This one's for you Bean.
Raptors 7th in East 12-9. Lakers 15th in West 3-17
After a disappointing showing against Denver on Thursday night the Raptors open their doors the hottest ticket in town. The streaking Golden State Warriors come to play. Can the Raptors break the streak? Let's find out
20-0. That's fire. That's what kind of start the Golden State Warriors are having, a legendary start to their season. Raptors have to be near perfect to break the streak.
In a slight bit of luck the Warriors will be without Harrison Barnes, he'll sit the game out with an ankle sprain
This game is also the 2nd year that the Raptors will pay tribute to Nelson Mandela who passed away 2 years ago today. Raptors GM Masai Ujiri is African and has worked very hard to give African youth a fair chance through basketball with his organization Giants of Africa. www.giantsofafrica.org
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Disturbed - "Warrior"
The sheer energy and brutality of this track is what the Raptors need to bring to stop the surging Golden State Warriors. Disturbed were on the heavy metal bands that ushered in the genre of the late 90's and early 00's known as Nu Metal. Along with Staind, System Of A Down, Static-X and Powerman 5000, Disturbed's popularity exploded with Nu Metal. "Warrior" is off the 2010 album Asylum.
Raptors 5th in the East 12-8. Warriors 1st in the West 20-0
Here we are at game number 20! After a tough schedule to start the season The Raptors finally get a few games at home and kick off a five game homestand against the visiting Denver Nuggets
Denver is another team who's record fans of the Raptors are watching with great interest. As a result of the Andrea Bargnani trade back in 2013, the Raptors will likely get the lower of the draft picks currently owned by the New York Knicks and the Denver Nuggets. Right now they sit at 13th in the West at 6-13
A couple players to watch on Denver's side are the rookie out of Zaire Emmanuel Mudiay who played professional ball in China last year and Danillo Gallinari who originally came to the Nuggets in the Masai engineered trade that sent Carmelo Anthony to New York. Both players are exciting and are having great seasons.
Jonas Valanciunas is still out for the Raptors but last night's game in Atlanta saw a new hope rise in the center position as Lucas "Bebe" Nogueira got some significant burn. Setting solid screens, grabbing 7 rebounds and two impressive alley-oop dunks are what is causing Raptors fans to say "Where has this guy been?" Expect to see more Bebe tonight.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Pavlov's Dog - "Gold Nuggets"
Here's a unique one for all you Raptor fans out there. Pavlov's Dog was a prog-rock, art-rock group from St. Louis who got their start in the early 70's. Members of the group had previous success in bands like Yes, REO Speedwagon and King Crimson. Though their first album Pampered Menial was highly praised and cited among some of the most influential prog-rock albums, the band failed to find commercial success and folded after their 3rd album was released in 1977.
Raptors are 4th in the East 12-7. Nuggets are 13th in West 6-13
If you told me at the beginning of the season that the Raptors would be 11-7 after the first month of NBA basketball I would have said sign me up!! That's where we find ourselves as The Raptors enter December and travel to Atlanta to take on the sixth place Hawks
It's the return of DeMarre Carroll to his old stomping grounds. It's not that he left on bad terms and the decision to leave wasn't acrimonious. Expect DC to get a warm reception
Other than losing Carroll to the Raptors the Hawks didn't make too many off season moves this past summer. Pero Antic returned to Europe after 2 years with the organization and Atlanta picked up Tiago Splitter from the Spurs. Splitter is actually out tonight with a hip injury.
This should be a good game as both teams are evenly matched. The Raptors will have to do a better job at defending the 3, which was one major weakness that lead to their loss against Phoenix on Sunday.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Cancer Bats - "Pneumonia Hawk"
The Cancer Bats are a hardcore group from Toronto, ON. The band was formed by members of another hardcore group At The Mercy Of Inspiration, and have released 5 studio albums since their beginning in 2004. "Pneumonia Hawk" which features George Pettit of fellow Canadian hardcore group Alexisonfire, can be found on their 2006 debut Birthing The Giant.
Raptors 5th in the East 11-7. Hawks 6th in the East 12-8
Raptors are 3-0 on Drake Night after defending their home court against LeBron and the Cavaliers. Tonight they are in Washington to take on the team that swept them in last year's playoffs, the Washington Wizards.
One of Washington's big men, the Brazilian Nene, will not be playing tonight. He left last night's game against Boston with a calf strain and did not return.
Wizards have lost their last 3 games against Boston, Charlotte and Indiana. Though they're down Raptors coach Dwane Casey had this to say about the match up tonight: "This team, if they have anything in their pants at all, they're going to come in loud, upset".
Bizmack Biyombo, who has been starting for the Raptors in Valanciunas' absence had a great game against the Cavaliers and racked up a double/double. Need more of that from the young man from the Congo.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Megadeth - "Washington Is Next"
Megadeth has always had a bit of a political lean to many of their albums. Peace Sells But Who's Buying?, The System Has Failed & The World Needs A Hero are all names of past albums with political topics dominating the lyrical subject matter. 2007's United Abominations has been hailed as their most political to date and return to form for Megadeth in terms of classic heavy metal and the type of guitar driven songs that Megadeth fans came to love about the band. It's that album where we find tonight's track "Washington Is Next"
Raptors 5th in the East 10-6. Wizards 12th in the East 6-7
The Raptors come home after going 2-3 on the road to face a difficult opponent. The Returning Eastern Conference Champions Cleveland Cavaliers come to Toronto and they're lead by nobody major, just LeBron James
It's Drake night at the ACC!! So expect alot of hip-hop music, celeb sightings and the Raptors to showcase their fresh new, black and gold OVO inspired jerseys
For The Cavaliers they will be missing Kyrie Irving and Matthew Dellavedova. Mo Williams will be returning tonight though, so they aren't completely sunk at the PG spot. They do still have plenty of quality players in Kevin Love, JR Smith, Timofey Mozgov and of course LeBron James.
DeMarre Carroll will get his shot to show why he was brought in to this Raptor squad, primarily to defend tough 3s like LeBron James. His offensive game has been all gravy
Tonight's Raptor Track!!
Soul Asylum - "Black Gold"
Don't give me a hard time for not picking a Drake track. I feel like I picked a bunch of his songs last year. Soul Asylum, staple 90's grunge band with a bunch of recognizable tracks like "Runaway Train", "Misery" and "Just Like Anyone". "Black Gold" was a single off the 1993 album Grave Dancer's Reunion. It was grossly overshadowed by the smash single "Runaway Train" however.
Raptors now 6th in the East 9-6. Cavs top of the East with 11-3!
Even though they almost gave it all way in the second half, the Raptors finish up their 5 game road trip by disassembling the LA Clippers in a 91-82 win.
Jonas Valanciunas will miss an expected 6 weeks after breaking a bone in his left hand during Friday's game against the Lakers. Bismack Biyombo got the start and grabbed 14 rebounds in the effort
The Raptors put up 63 first half points and ended up only scoring 8 in the entire third quarter. Thankfully they were able to slow the Clippers down and close the game out.
DeMarre Carroll and Luis Scola had big scoring nights. With 21 and 20 points respectively.
Raptors go 2-3 on the 5 game swing and return home to take on a tough Cleveland Cavaliers team.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
She Wants Revenge - "...and A Song For Los Angeles"
She Wants Revenge are an electro-pop duo from California who released their first album in 2006. "...And A Song For Los Angeles" was released on their sophomore album This Is Forever in 2007 as a Best Buy Bonus track. The only way to get the song in album form was to purchase it at Best Buy. Ah well..
Raptors move to fifth in the East. 9-6. Clippers fall to eighth in the West 6-7.
Ok. No more ess-ing around. This is a must win game for the Raptors. Toronto vs the LA Lakers! Tonight! at 10:30
Expect Kobe Bryant to be playing tonight, though his minutes are sure to be limited. After a game last week Bryant said he was so sore that he wasn't looking forward to walking to his car. Sadly this will likely be his final season.
Ex-Raptor and Sixth Man of the year Lou Williams now plays for the Lakers, it will be good to see him again.
The Raptors need to figure how to close out games. They've held leads going into the 4th quarter on several of their most recent losses only to give the game away. There needs to be more energy and intensity.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
The Doors - "LA Woman"
Classic LA track by a classic American band!
Raptors now 9th in the East! 7-6. Lakers 14th in the West 2-9!
Ok, so we now what it feels like to lose. Can't expect to win them all and the Raptors gave it their all against The Golden State Warriors and they're looking for a win on this road trip as they roll into Utah to take on the Jazz
The Jazz are not a team you can take lightly, though their only win against a team with a winning record was against the Atlanta Hawks, they have many good, young players and are hungry to make noise in the league this year
They will be without their lottery pick from a couple years ago in Dante Exum who will miss this season with an achilles tear and Terrence Ross will still be out for Toronto.
There was a lot of chatter about the legitimacy of some of the calls from late in the GSW game, the reality is, the Raptors need to execute better. Make free throws and make every trip down the court count. Cannot hope the refs will bail you out
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Band Of Horses - "The Great Salt Lake"
Utah play in Salt Lake City, so tonight we'll go to Seattle's Band Of Horses. "The Great Salt Lake" comes off their debut album Everything All The Time released in 2006. It was critically claimed and the only album with the original lineup as several band members would leave or be replaced for it was even released.
Raptors 7-5. Sixth in the East. Jazz 5-5. Eighth in the West
After a tough loss in Sacramento the Raptors are looking to bounce back against the defending champions, The Golden State Warriors.
It was speculated that Klay Thompson may not play in tonight's game due to a back issue, but after participating in the morning's shootaround it appears he will play tonight. Along with Draymond Green who had the flu for the passed couple days and one time Raptor Leandro Barbosa who had to fly home to Brazil for a family matter
The Warriors remain the only undefeated team in the NBA with a staggering record of 11-0. They are a greatly crafted team, but Steph Curry has been continuing right where he left off after winning the championship. He's shooting lights out and has been a great leader for a Golden State team that seemingly cannot be stopped
Probably no Terrence Ross again tonight for Toronto and it's been scoring late in games that have sunk the Raptors in their 4 losses. Everyone needs to be on their game, tight and precise if they expect a victory
Tonight's Raptor Track!
The Asteroid Galaxy Tour - "Golden Age"
Danish pop group Asteroid Galaxy Tour, who are most well known for coining a song used in a Heineken beer ad back in 2011 provide the same song tonight for our Raptor track! They got their start opening for Amy Winehouse in 2009 and were soon asked to appear in an iPod ad. Call it selling out if you must, but in this day and age, allowing your songs to be used in ads is a sure way to gain an audience.
After securing a solid win over the Pelicans, the Raptors head out on a tough West Coast road swing. First stop: Sacramento to take on the Kings
Things are falling apart behind the scenes for the Kings as they deal with front office turmoil, players only meetings and a Head Coach George Karl who is not producing the results expected of him.
Despite all that Rajon Rondo, now with his 3rd NBA team in a year, is having an excellent start to the season posting 3 triple double performances already.
DeMarre Carroll returned on Friday for the Raps after being out for a few games with a nagging foot injury. He started out slow, but returned to the Carroll we've seen all season provided defense, 3-point shooting and hustle off the get go.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Middle Of The Road - "Sacramento"
Classic Rock group from Scotland Middle Of The Road are in the spotlight tonight with their song 'Sacramento'. A group from Scotland, singing about an American city, while rolling around Amsterdam in the video? Cool stuff!
Raptors are back home for a wink before they head out on a tough West Coast road trip. They gotta take care of business at home against the struggling New Orleans Pelicans who may just be without their star
Pelicans Superstar centre Anthony Davis has a hip injury and won't be in the line up tonight for New Orleans. Along with the 4 other players who are out, this Pelicans squad needs to get healthy quick to turn their slow start (1-7) around.
Last year the Raptors were swept by the Pelicans and had big performances by players like Luke Babbitt, Alexis Ajencia and Tyreke Evans. Just because they are a few players down and have a lowly 1-7 record, you gotta take care of home base.
DeMarre Carroll and Terrence Ross are both likely out again for Toronto. Their injuries are given other rotation players like James Johnson and Norman Powell a chance to shine however.
Lastly, it appears Bebe and Bruno will be joining the ranks of the Raptors 905, Mississauga's NBA D-League team. Hopefully there they can get plenty of playing time and develop into great players
Tonight's Raptor Track
REM - "New Orleans Instrumental No. 1"
Don't know any story behind this track except that it's the only instrumental track on REM's fantastic album Automatic For The People. Songs don't always need words to covey feelings, emotions or to tell stories. Sometimes you can just sit back and enjoy the music.
A game started at 7pm tonight and a team was looking to snap a 3 game losing streak. That team was the Raptors...did they pull it off? Let's find out
Still no DeMarre Carroll or Terrence Ross for the Raptors. Ross is out with a strained thumb and Carroll still with his nagging foot injury. James Johnson started for Carroll
Norman Powell got a bit of playing time with Ross being out and was quite impressive. 8pts 4 rebounds and one emphatic dunk!!
The Sixers were without Nerlens Noel, but their top pick in the 2015 Draft Jahill Okafor had a good game, who battled with JV most of the night. The future is bright in Philly, they just need to figure out where they're going. And alot of credit to coach Brett Brown who has these young, underdeveloped and under appreciated players fighting like devils with nothing to lose.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Alan Jackson - "1976"
If I have a hard time finding a Raptor Track song to suit a team's name, I can usually pull something out of Country music. Country artists love writing songs about where they're from and good ol' times before things got too complicated. Alan Jackson here is reminiscing about 1976, things were a little simpler then eh Alan?
Raptors return home after going 2-2 on the road and need to protect the ACC from the once mighty New York Knicks
Still no word on whether DeMarre Carrol will play tonight. Let's hope he isn't out too long, The Raptors definitely need his hustle and tenacity on defense
It's the Raptors first look at the #4 pick in the 2015 Draft, Kristaps Porzingis. The New York fans weren't too happy about the pick, but he's looking pretty good early on. Jonas Valanciunas will have his hands full tonight trying to keep this guy out of the paint.
We all want the Knicks to do bad this year. We get the lower pick from either Denver or New York thanks to the Carmelo Anthony to NY deal and the Andrea Bargnani to New York deal. Both trades masterminded by current Raptors GM Masai Ujiri
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Ryan Adams - "New York, New York"
Have I done this one yet? I don't think so....have I? MEH why not do it again, even if I already did it. Ryan Adams "New York, New York"
Well the 82-0 dream is over after losing at the buzzer against Orlando on Friday night. It's alright though the Raptors are still tied for second in the East with a record of 5-1 and are looking for win #6 against some familiar foes The Miami Heat.
DeMarre Carroll is questionable tonight for The Raptors with soreness in his foot. Apparently he's been dealing with the pain over the past couple weeks, which speaks to his toughness and willingness to sacrifice for the team. If he sits out tonight, look for James Johnson to see some playing time.
Chris Bosh is back and fully healthy for the Heat which is great news for them. He missed the majority of last year with a blood clot in his lung.
Josh McRoberts is also back with the team after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus and missed most of last year. Though the team is still without Gerald Green who was admitted to the hospital a few days ago after he was found unconscious and bleeding in the lobby of his condo. Mysterious.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Hot Hot Heat - "Middle Of Nowhere"
British Columbia's Hot Hot Heat have been around since 1999 and got their break being signed to Seattle's Subpop label. Their latest release however was 5 years ago, though the band does continue to tour and make appearances. "Middle Of Nowhere" comes from their 2005 album Elevator.
5-0 BAYBAYBAY!!!!! The Raptors travel to Florida to try and make it 6ix straight wins to kick off the season, but a young and hungry team stands between them and that achievement. The Orlando Magic.
Unfortunate news for Magic fans as their talented, young center Nikola Vucevic will be sitting this game out due to a bone bruise on his right knee. With him out of the game Jonas Valanciunas should have a successful night.
The Magic have plenty of ways to due damage of their own however, Victor Oladipo, Tobias Harris and Elfrid Payton are all young up and comers. And their fourth-year guard Evan Fournier is having a great start to his year. Fun fact: Fournier was the first guy I saw with the new "manbun" hair style.
This game is by no means a lock, but the Raptors have all the momentum in the world though, with Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan and Cory Joseph coming off of great performances against the Thunder. Should be a fun one!
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Angels & Airwaves - "Everything's Magic"
Angels & Airwaves is what Tom DeLonge created after his former band Blink 182 went on hiatus. It was a more rock oriented group than the punk-ish tunes Blink was known for and the lyrical content more serious and often more sci-fi oriented than anything DeLonge had done before. "Everything's Magic" was the first single of the band's second album I-Empire, released in 2007.
Well well well....as I slide this entry in right before tip off the Toronto Raptors sit atop the Eastern Conference with a record of 4-0. The first time in franchise history that the team has started this way. The Raptors have a real tough test tonight as they face the always difficult Oklahoma City Thunder in one of the NBA's loudest arenas
Forgot to give props to Dwane Casey, the Raptors head coach who after the Milwaukee game became the Raptors most winningest coach in franchise history. After last night's win his total rests at 158 Ws!!! Congrats coach!
Kevin Durant of the OKC Thunder is back and along with his running mate Russell Westbrook the Thunder are looking to make some major strides in the West this year...especially since they missed the Playoffs last year
Raptors are on the 2nd game of their first back-to-back of the season and OKC is in Chicago tomorrow night. Need to get the energy levels up early, so maybe just maybe this team can get to 5-0.
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Lit - "Four"
That's right babies!! Four and OH to start!! It's a franchise first, a landmark and a winning streak!! It also means that the Raptors are in the top 4 teams of the NBA in terms of offensive and defensive efficiency!!! Get psyched!!! This song by Lit called "Four" is a good one to help everyone get psyched as well!!
The Raptors are off to their best start since the 2008-2009 season with a record of 3-0. They get their first taste of the tough Western Conference tonight as they kick off a road trip in Dallas and square off against Mark Cuban's Mavericks.
It was announced today that the Raptors have extended Terrence Ross for another 3 years! Congrats to the young man on the deal and i'm to watch him continue to develop and dazzle with his natural athleticism.
Tonight is Dallas' first home game of the season after going 2-1 on the road. They added some notable names over the offseason like Wesley Matthews, Raymond Felton and Deron Williams. Along with Dirk Nowitzki and Chandler Parsons, they'll be hoping to regain their glory days from when they went the whole way back in 2011
It will be interesting to see if Canadian boy Dwight Powell gets any playing time. He found himself on the Dallas squad when he was included in last year's trade that brought Rajon Rondo from The Celtics to the Mavericks
Tonight's Raptor Track!
Maverick Sabre - "Let Me Go"
Maverick Sabre is an English singer/songwriter/rapper who's debut album Lonely Are The Brave was released in the UK in 2012. It gained positive reviews and it's follow up was just released this past Halloween, the 2015 release Innerstanding.
I know it's still early but The Raptors are one of the only two undefeated teams in the East going into tonight's game! The other team? The Detroit Pistons, yeah, they're 3-0.
Terrence Ross had a great game on Friday night against the Boston Celtics and he has until tomorrow to sign an extension with the team. I'm sure his agent, himself and Masai will get some deal done. The kid has alot of talent and looks like he's found his niche coming off the bench behind DeMar and giving his team some solid minutes
Don't sleep on the Bucks at all. They are definitely a playoff team this year. Not only do they have a solid young group learning and growing together in players like Giannis Antentokounmpo, John Henson and Jabari Parker (who remains injured). The Bucks also have some key veteran players like OJ Mayo and the recently acquired Greg Monroe...a tough group to compete with
The Raptors encounter another former brother in arms tonight in Greivis Vasquez. GV was traded on draft night to the Bucks for the draft rights to Norman Powell and a future first round pick.
Tonight's Raptor Track
Buck 65 - "Wicked & Weird"
Buck 65 is a Canadian rapper from the East Coast, who uses elements of blues, ska, country, folk and rock in his unique blend of alternative music. "Wicked & Weird" might be his most well known song. If you're ever in need of a chill driving track as you head out on the unknown highway, you should consider this one.
We will always love the General...but tonight he must be crushed!!
Raptors snag the W in the first game of their season and then head out for the first of many road contests this month. They are in Boston tonight to visit the division rival Celtics.
It is a bittersweet day for Raptors fans as we get to see Toronto fan favourite Amir Johnson, however he will be sadly wearing the Boston green. Amir played 6 years in Toronto and embraced every aspect of the city. From Drake to Carribana to the Blue Jays to the fans themselves. Amir was impossible to hate and that included his well documented hustle on the court. Whether he was 100% healthy or not, thats what he always gave. He signed with Boston for 2 years. Nothing but the best for Amir.
Valanciunas had a great game for Toronto in the home opener and scored a double-double. Other big contributions came from Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan. Good starts all around.
Boston has only gotten stronger this off season. Not only adding Johnson, but also NBA champion David Lee. They still have last year's Sixth Man Of The Year candidate Isaiah Thomas. Add those to an already impressive young core and it's clear to see that the Celtics have an brilliantly bright future.
Tonight's Raptor Track!!
Motionless In White - "Devil's Night"
Oh yes it's Devil's Night!! Oh what a night!! Motionless In White are a Goth-Core Metal group from Pennsylvania. Scranton actually! I wonder if they ever opened for Scrantonicity II? Motionless In White have 3 studio albums under their belt. "Devil's Night" comes form their 2012 release Infamous.
Raptors Christmas is finally here!!! The opening game for the 2015-2016 NBA season is upon and the Raptors open up at home against the visiting Indiana Pacers!!
A Couple questions will linger game to game as this season progresses. What to do about DeMar DeRozan's contract? Raptors GM already said they won't discuss an extension until the season is over, and DeRozan's sure to be looking for max money. Is he worth a hefty contract? It's all up to how this season goes. For both him and the squad.
Terrence Ross is another enigma, he is also up for an extension, but has yet to reach the full potential that Raptor fans have hoped for him. Maybe coming off the bench will ignite a fire in the young Washington Grad. Jonas Valanciunas is also hoped to take some great strides this year, but he signed a 4-year extension in the off-season...if he doesn't pan out, he may get traded.
There is some new blood to keep an eye on too. Cory Joseph, DeMarre Carroll and Bismack Biyombo are all welcome defensive additions to the team, which is where many felt was the Raptors downfall last season, especially in the playoffs.
Indiana looks a little different this year too. Monta Ellis is their newest high profile addition, while they lost Roy Hibbert and David West in the off season. Paul George is back and if he can stay healthy all year long the Pacers have a good chance of reaching the Post Season once again.
Tonight's Raptor Track(s)!!
Metallica - "Jump In The Fire"
Metallica is my favourite band and this jam always gets me amped up!!! This season will be a test and a grind for the Raptors, but I know they have no fear of jumping straight into that fire and showing the rest of the NBA that we belong in the Post Season and the discussion for the Eastern Conference title!
Straight Faced - "Let's Do This"
Yep it's Opening night! We get 2 tracks!!!
I know nothing about this band, and picked the song on the title alone! LETS DO THIS!!!!
Today's blog comes the day after the game because I was live in attendance!! The Raptors faced off against the Timberwolves in the Nation's capital! Ottawa came out to cheer on their boys. Here's a few points
Sure the Raptors fell 89-87 to the T-Wolves, but it was a great showcase of all kinds of young talent. Plenty to be excited about in respect to our rookies Delon Wright and Norman Powell, who had a number of athletic plays.
Tyus Jones continued to impress on Minnesota's side as well as last year's Slam Dunk Champion Zach Lavine. The two combined for 21 points.
Kyle Lowry sat the game out along with Terrence Ross for the Raptors. Ross didn't make the trip to Ottawa after rolling his ankle in the previous game.
Last Night's Raptor Track
Capital Cities - "Safe & Sound"
LA indie pop duo Capital Cities had a huge hit back in 2013 with "Safe & Sound". Many people from outside of Canada aren't aware that Toronto is not our nation's capital city. It's good to see the NBA rolling through other cities in Canada where love of Basketball continues to grow. Next Canadian game is against the Washington Wizards in Montreal
Raptors are back home for the first time this season to play the 1st game in a two game series against the Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Bennett will likely get some playing time against his old team. He had a monstrous jam in the game against the Lakers, hopefully the kid will continue to improve and maybe being cheered on by his countrymen will help
This marks another homecoming as Toronto-born Andrew Wiggins is the Timberwolves focal point this season. Their management has brought in some seasoned veterans (KG, Andre Miller) and some exciting young talent (Zach LaVine, Tyrus Jones) to surround 2014's #1 overall pick.
Speaking of #1 Overall picks, Karl Anthony-Towns was picked first overall in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Their fanbase is on board, jacked up and all in for a bright future ahead.
This is also the first time we'll see the ACC's new court in action, complete with the Raptors' new logo.
Today's Raptor Track
Josh Ritter - "Wolves"
This album is fantastic. 2006's The Animal Years, really showcases Ritter's diversity and proficiency as a songwriter. "Wolves" is an unexpected sing along track near the start of the album. It is a good indication of the magic that awaits the listener.
The Preseason labours on and the Raptors find themselves in Ontario. Not that Ontario! Ontario, California where they have the Los Angeles Lakers waiting for them. Let's look at some details
Alot of homecoming here for the Raptors squad. DeMar DeRozan, Delon Wright and Norman Powell all hail from the Golden State and i'm sure they'll all be jacked to play in front of friends and family. Funny note, I almost included Amir Johnson in that list...forgot that he signed with Boston for a moment there...
We'll also get to reunite with last year's 6th Man of The Year award winner and former Raptor Lou Williams who signed with LA in the offseason. Looouuuuuuuuu...
The tides are changing a little in Laker Land. Kobe is still around, but there are a plethora of questions concerning his playing time and health. It appears the idea is for him to pass on the torch to the young crew they have assembled there in Jordan Clarkson, Julius Randle and D'Angelo Russell.
This game will be televised at 10pm on NBA TV, so hopefully we'll get to see some of the players who sat out last televised game like James Johnson and Anthony Bennett.
Today's Raptor Track
Steve Earle - "Justice In Ontario"
Steve Earle has always had a penchant for politcally charged songs and kicking ass. This one is about a few cases of vigilantism in Ontario, Canada. Firstly the Black Donnelly's who were a family of Irish immigrants with mob ties that were famously gunned down and their farm razed without anyone ever brought to justice for the crime. Then he relates to a more modern tale from Port Hope, ON where a man was killed in a bar and the wrong men were sent to prison for the crime. It's kinda like his version of "Hurricane"
After a dominating showing in Vancouver, the Raptors head down the coast to take on the Golden State Warriors in San Jose, California.
Rumour is this game is not televised anywhere (but why?). Here's hoping there is still an online stream somewhere that can be watched
Looks like Kyle Lowry is sitting out for the Raptors, hopefully it's just rest as an injury this early in the season would be worrisome.
James Johnson, Lucas Nogueira and Anthony Bennett all sat out on Sunday vs the Clippers. No word yet on whether any of them will see any playing time tonight
Fresh off their 2014-2015 Championship season, this is the Golden State Warriors first preseason game since beating the Cavaliers back in June. Like the Clippers the Warriors line-up remains relatively unchanged. David Lee has been moved to Boston and they picked up Ben Gordon during the offseason.
Today's Raptor Track Dionne Warwick - "Do You Know The Way To San Jose"
As mentioned above tonight's game (10:30est) is being played in San Jose. This song was written for Warwick by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Thought Warwick viewed it a silly song, it won a Grammy for best Contemporary-Pop Vocal, Female. She laughed all the way to the bank
And we're back!!!!!! The preseason starts today for our beloved Toronto Raptors!!! As in past years our boys enjoyed their training camp out in Vancouver, BC so that is where they will welcome the Los Angeles Clippers to start their preseason. It's a new year and a new look! Let's go over a few key points!!
Raptors lost a few fan favourites in Greivis Vasquez, Lou Williams and Amir Johnson. GV was traded to Milwaukee for a future round draft pick. Lou signed with the Los Angeles Lakers and the toughest pill to swallow is Amir Johnson signing with our division rival Boston Celtics. They will all be missed
A door doesn't close without a window opening and the Raptors also added several key players to the roster this year. DeMarre Carol signed with Toronto on Canada Day. We'll also be welcoming Bismack Biyombo and Luis Scola. Speaking of Canada, for the first time ever the Raptors signed 2 Canadian players to their roster over the off-season, former San Antonio Spur and NBA Champion Cory Joseph and 2013 #1 overall pick Anthony Bennett. As well as our rookies Delon Wright and Norman Powell, Raptor fans have alot to be excited for.
The Clippers on the other hand don't look that much different from last year. All-Stars Blake Griffin and Chris Paul return for another year. DeAndre Jordan, who was supposedly looking forward to pursuing free agency this summer, is also back with the Clippers after re-negging on a lucrative offer from the Dallas Mavericks. His first trip to Texas should be interesting. Former Raptor Chuck Hayes is also on the Clipper's squad this year after his deal with the Rockets fell flat. Not sure he'll get much playing time behind Jordan and Cole Aldrich. Last but not least notorious Raptor killer Paul Pearce is on the Clipper squad this year. Hopefully the site of him ignites some rage in Toronto's blood and we get a taste of that killer instinct early and chase it all season long
To go along with the new roster looks both teams also have new uniforms and logos that are being displayed this year.
Today's Raptors Track
RKL - "We're Back We're Pissed"
Rich Kids on LSD (RKL) were a punk band from California formed in the early 80's. They've been credited with inspiring many later punk groups like NOFX, The Offspring and Green Day. This is the mentality I want from the Raptors...we're not that nice, cute, dino team from Canada anymore. We're back and we're pissed.
There is nothing left to say. It's all action from here and the Raptors must leave everything on the court tonight to stay alive. Raptors are in DC for game 4 and facing possible elimination.
Amir Johnson was put back in the starting lineup for Toronto for game 3. While the Raptors looked good early, their defense slacked late in the game and the Wizards ran away with one. We'll see if Dwane Casey tweaks the lineup anymore tonight
Everyone is curious about why James Johnson saw no playing time in game 1 or 3. I like the guy, but i'm not sure he is our saviour here. Sure we can use his length, but he went 0-4 from the free throw line in game 2 and only had four points total. Everything needs to be on point tonight. Everything.
With a miraculous win tonight the Raptors would force a game 5 and come home to Toronto. We can only hope
Song of the Day
Die Mannequin - "Do it or Die"
Die Mannequin are a rock band from the Raptors' home town of Toronto, Ontario. Releasing two album to date they've toured with Guns n' Roses, Sum 41 and Danko Jones. It's do or die for the Raptors tonight against the Wizards. C'mon, the Wizards man.
Alright now that game 1 is out of the way. We can do away with Playoff jitters and nerves. The Wizards took game 1, let's look at the details and see what the Raptors need to do to take game 2
All the talk on Toronto's side is why James Johnson didn't play during game 1. Masai Ujiri brought him in to counter players like Pierce. Though I feel the defense wasn't why we lost the game, it was offense. DeMar, Kyle and Jonas all had quiet nights. This needs to change if the Raptors want to advance past the first round
Amir Johnson and Grievis Vasquez had huge games. As well as Lou Williams who was named the NBA's 6th Player of The Year on Monday.
Of course Toronto's GM couldn't resist tempting fate as Masai was fined over $30K for saying he didn't give a shit about Paul Pierce at an NBA event.
Song Of The Day
"Weird Al" Yankovic - "Jurassic Park"
There are certain constants in life that you can always count on, Death, Taxes and the Toronto Raptors rabid fanbase will amass outside the ACC for all Raptors Playoff games. What was once known as Maple Leaf Square has now been affectionately called "Jurassic Park" is home to thousands of eager Raptors fans watching the action inside the ACC from a parking lot just outside. The game is projected on a huge outdoor screen and rain or shine the fans line up to be heard. It's reasons like this that Raptors fans are the known around the NBA as the league's best.
It's time for all Raptors fans across the country to get up and get hype!!! The fifth seed Washington Wizards come to town to face our fourth seed Toronto Raptors in what should be an electrifying first round series
Alot has been said about Paul Pierce's comments about the Raptors not having "it". Now I don't necessarily think it was meant fully as a slight against Toronto, but in any case it has definitely lit a fire in Toronto among players, fans and media alike.
While Otto Porter and Nene i'm sure will be playing, they've been struggling with injuries as of late and may have their minutes limited. A Chance for JV and Tyler Hansbrough to have some big moments against a smaller Wizard front court.
Speaking of players not back at 100% expect Amir Johnson to come off the bench behind Tyler Hansbrough. His ankle has been giving him trouble his whole career and we'd hate to have him go down early to an injury. Tyler has stepped up huge in the starting role and his physicality may be the dark horse factor in the early games.
Song of the day
Boy Sets Fire - "After The Eulogy"
If only I was there. I want all those in attendance to make the ACC a living hell for the Wizards. Everybody needs to get angry, get loud. Show Washington that this won't be an easy task for them. So I wanted to pick a song that embodied those feelings. The title track from Boy Sets Fire's epic album After The Eulogy fits it perfectly. "WHERE'S YOUR ANGER? WHERE'S YOUR FUCKING RAGE?"
Last regular season game of the year! For a while there, being a Raptors fan, this meant it's the last time you'd see some of these guys wearing the jersey or playing at the ACC as their homecourt. It's great that the team has made it to the post season in back to back years. A tradition well worth keeping alive
The Raptors rested DeMar DeRozan in last night's loss to Boston. Amir Johnson was back, though he played limited minutes. No word on if DeRozan will play tonight or not
Charlotte has been quietly eliminated from the playoffs and will likely rest a few players. Namely Al Jefferson, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Cody Zeller.
With a win tonight and Chicago Bulls loss the Raptors will land in 3rd spot in the East and face the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the playoffs. Any other scenario and they'll face Washington.
Song of the Day
"The Last Fight" - Velvet Revolver
It's the last fight of the regular season for the Raptors and the last fight of the year for the defeated Hornets. The season didn't quite go the way Charlotte fans were hoping it would, but since they've had our number for countless game and seasons, screw 'em. Rock supergroup Velvet Revolver was made up of musicians from Guns N' Roses and the vocalist from Stone Temple Pilots. Here's their song "The Last Fight"
