Playoffs Round 4: Game 6: Raptors at Warriors!

Shimmy Loose

• The Series goes back to Oakland as the Raptors fell short of closing out the Warriors on Monday. It's back to business and Toronto will need to stop Klay Thompson and Steph Curry for a shot at the Championship
• Kevin Durant went down in the first quarter of Game 5 with a ruptured achillies and is expected to miss the entire 2019-2020 season. Kevon Looney also left the game but is probable for tonight
• All it will take is one win for Toronto to make it to the promised land. OG Anunoby is available, but has yet to get the call from rookie coach Nick Nurse. Likely due to him worrying about Anunoby's conditioning
• Win or lose this is the last NBA game to ever be played in the Oracle Arena, as the Warriors are getting a new stadium for next season

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Ecstasy Of Gold

The Raptors are going for the Gold, they sometimes wear White & Gold and they are in Golden State. Also this track is just so damn epic, needs to be played loud!

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Delerium Tremens

This Belgian Strong Pale Ale is world famous and was named The Best Beer in The World for 2008. It comes in hard at 8.5% and it's logo is a pink elephant, as it has been known to cause hallucinations. Whether the Raptors lose and you want to numb your pain, or they win and you want to lose your mind. Delerium is a good choice for you

Raptors lead series 3-2!

Playoff Round 4: Game 3: Raptors at Warriors!

Here Comes Revenge

• The Warriors bounced back in Game 2 and stole one in Toronto. It really came down to one bad quarter for the Raptors who let Golden State go on a 18-0 run in the third
• Kevon Looney left the game and was later diagnosed with a fractured collar bone. He is out for an indeterminate amount of time and Klay Thompson sprained his hamstring and is questionable for game 3
• No word on whether Kevin Durant will play either game in Oakland, but Toronto's OG Anunoby is cleared to play

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Metallica - "Here Comes Revenge"

Metallica are performing the Star-Spangled Banner tonight at Oracle Arena!!! I'm so conflicted! My favourite band supporting the opposing team of my favourite team??? Not really, Raptors all the way, but it kinda makes me wish we had Metallica instead of Drake. Nothing against him, I love his enthusiasm and love and support of Toronto and the Raptors, but Metallica at a Toronto home game would be my dream!

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Golden State Cider

I don't do enough Ciders on this thing! From their webiste!

Mighty Dry is made with 100% fresh-pressed apple juice and fermented with Champagne yeast. Juicy, freshly cut apple aromatics balance perfectly with a bright, crisp taste to produce our flagship Cider.

Series tied 1-1!

Playoffs Round 4: Game 1: Warriors at Raptors!

The Raptors Are In The NBA Finals!

• Yes. You read that right. The NBA Finals start tonight and the Toronto Raptors have home court advantage over the visiting reigning champs, the Golden State Warriors
• The Warriors will be without Kevin Durant for a few games it seems as he injured his ankle in the previous series against Portland. DeMarcus Cousins however will be suiting up for Golden State, he adds a new dynamic that the Raptors haven't really seen yet this Playoffs
• OG Anunoby might return during this series, but tonight is unlikely
• We should enjoy this as Raptors fans, don't get too discouraged by losses and cherish every win. The Year Of The Raptor!!

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Funeral For A Friend - "History"

We are witnessing sports History. Which is great, especially for Toronto and this country. The NBA Finals have never been played outside of the USA until tonight. We Truly Are The North

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Taster's Choice

I Might be too excited to drink.....so have whatever tickles your fancy!

Series tied 0-0!

Playoffs Round 3: Game 4: Bucks at Raptors!

Overtime Dramatics!

• Raptors defeated the Milwaukee Bucks in game 3 in a double overtime thriller! Here's hoping it doesn't require that kind of extra play for Toronto to even the series at 2-2 tonight
• Kawhi Leonard logged some heavy minutes, but when you're the team MVP and maybe more, 52 minutes to get a win is just something that comes with the territory
• No lineup changes for either team as of yet, though Nick Nurse teased some potential tweaking for game 3. OG and McCaw remain out

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Motorhead - "The Claw"

This one is dedicated to #2.  Playing his heart out, through pain and consequence. Not making any excuses for himself and letting it all bleed out on the floor. Offensively and defensively. Hopefully this isn't your last home game as a Toronto Raptor. The Claw. #2. The Man, The Myth. Kawhi Leonard

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Taster's Choice

I know it's a bit of a cop-out, but I found this image online and really wanted to us it. Was looking for some kind of hunting season booze, but of course, Beer Season is just too perfect

Bucks lead series 2-1!

Playoffs Round 3: Game 3: Bucks at Raptors!

Protect Home Court

• The first 2 games of the series haven't gone the way the Raptors have hoped. The playoffs return to Toronto though and the Raptors are gonna need all that home crowd energy for a win here in game 3
• The same old shooting woes are rearing their ugly necks for the Raptors, with Danny Green and Marc Gasol struggling to fin their shots
• Bucks are basically getting anything they want and the Raptors defense and Coaching staff are sure to have a new game plan in mind for tonight's match up

Tonight's Raptor Track!

The Rugburns - "Skyfucking Line Of Toronto"

Not exactly sure what I stumbled upon here, but it's a song about the Skyline of Toronto apparently. The Sky-fuckin' Line of Toronto! YEAH!! Now I get it!! YEAAAHHH!!

Today's Game Day Drink!

Raptor Energy Drink

This isn't an alcoholic drink or anything, but like any energy drink a little vodka in there and maybe you've got something cooking. Don't go overboard with those alcoholic energy drinks though. Seriously.

Bucks lead series 2-0!

Playoffs Round 3: Game 2: Raptors at Bucks!

No Let Up

• A phenomenal performance from Kyle Lowry couldn't propel the Raptors past the Bucks in Game 1, who fell 108-100 after a fourth quarter collapse. Kyle hit a career high 7 threes and lead the team in energy all night
• Brook Lopez was a huge factor for the Bucks, who ended with 29 points. He's a different big than Marc Gasol is used to, but I fully expect Toronto's coaching staff to have a game plan for game 2
• Though Patrick McCaw hasn't seen action in a few games he's listed as day-to-day due to personal reasons. OG Anunoby still has no definite time to return. Same players out for Bucks.

Tonight's Raptor Track!

System Of A Down - "Deer Dance"

Did a System of A Down song for game 1 and realized they have another song suitable for this matchup. Off the same album, Toxicity, it's "Deer Dance"

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Old Milwaukee

Is this beer even still around? I used to have it when I was younger but it gave me heartburn, kinda like the Milwaukee Bucks....

Bucks lead series 1-0!

Playoff Round 3: Game 1: Raptors at Bucks!

Eastern Conference Finals!

• There's the picture that you've seen a thousand times since Sunday. Of Kawhi's historic shot that again you've seen a thousand times since Sunday. But....in case you haven't...

• In what will go down as the greatest moment in Raptors history Kawhi Leonard hit an impossible shot to take game 7 and seal the series against the Philadelphia 76ers. 4 games to 3.
• It doesn't get any easier for Toronto as Giannis Antentokoumpo and the Milwaukee Bucks have been waiting patiently since eliminating the Boston Celtics in 5 games. Rebounds must be grabbed. 3s must be contested and shots must be made
• Still OG Anunoby for the Raps as he recovers from appendix surgery. For the Bucks Marc Gasol's brother Pau has yet to play in these playoffs and DJ Wilson is out with a sore ankle.

Tonight's Raptor Track!

System Of A Down - "Bounce!"

That ball doinked off the rim a total of 4 times which seemed to last an eternity. Tonight's song honours those bounces.

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Well, I dunno...my computer just took a dump.

Drink whatever ya want! But get hype and loud for Canada's NBA team!

Series tied 0-0!

Playoff Round 2: Game 5: 76ers at Raptors!

Best of 3

• Raptors return home, where the second round playoff series with the Sixers has become a best of three. Since Toronto won on Sunday the series is now tied 2-2
• Joel Embiid, who will likely play tonight, has been reportedly dealing with an upper respiratory infection. It appears he will be a game time decision
• Pascal Siakam who was dealing with a swollen calf on Sunday will play. OG Anunoby is still out after having an emergency appendectimy.

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Elton John - "Philadelphia Freedom"

I meant to pick this one a few games ago, better late than never i guess

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Smithwick's

It may or may not have been cheap night for Irish beer at the local watering hole. I may or may not have a few Smithwicks tonight.

Series tied 2-2!

Playoff Round 2: Game 4: Raptors at 76ers! (POSTGAME)

Exhale...

• There will be a game 6. Raptors defeated the 76ers 101-96 in game 4 at the Wells Fargo arena in Philadelphia. That brings the series to a tie once again at two apiece.
• Kawhi Leonard had another monster game with 39 points, including a go ahead 3 late in the 4th to essentially seal the game. Pascal had a quiet night, but was unsure if he would play due to a swollen calf
• Joel Embiid was also questionable due to illness, but he did play and was rendered rather quiet compared to his game 3 domination. 

Tonight's Raptor Track!

City & Colour - "Comin Home"

Game 5 is Tuesday back in the comfort of the Scotiabank Arena. Raptors fans, get loud and get there early to show your colours for the team!

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Champagne

Hey, a win is a win! So pop the cork and take a little swig of the bubbly! Enjoy what's left of this beautiful weekend!

Series tied 2-2!

Playoff Round 2: Game 3: Raptors at 76ers!

Philadelphia Freedom!

• Philadelphia tied the series at 1 game a piece on Monday after coach Brett Brown made some great adjustments dealing with the Raptors' offence and a sluggish performance from said offence. Let's see if Toronto can bounce back tonight like they did against Orlando after a loss
• Greg Monroe left game 2 with a sore ankle and did not return. A welcome sight to Toronto fans as he was torching the Raptors' defence, yes that Greg Monroe. Joel Embiid was dealing with stomach issues. Both are likely to play this game
• Kyle Lowry is a Philly kid first and foremost. He gets +1/+1 when playing here. With a little help form his supporting cast I think the Raptors shouldn't have much of a problem tonight. But the playoffs are a different animal and the 76ers fans are rabid! Should be a blast!

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Metallica - "For Whom The Bell Tolls"

Philadelphia likes to ring a replica of the Liberty Bell before games. Hence the inspiration for tonight's song. I have a feeling the bell will toll for the home team tonight

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Philadelphia Beer

It's a basic name from a similarly basic-named brewing company, The General Investment Company. It's a boring 5%, without a memorable after taste. It won't fill you up so you're left wanting more...

Series tied 1-1!

Playoff Round 2: Game 2: 76ers at Raptors!

The Times They Are A' Changin'

• Raptors took care of home court in Game 1 with a decisive win over the 76ers. Kawhi had 45 points and has become the most efficient scorer in NBA Post Season history, shooting a blistering 62.3% from the field
• Can't have any let up however, as many of the Sixers had poor nights including Jimmy Butler and Tobias Harris. JJ Redick didn't make a shot until the 3rd quarter, but got hot fast. Toronto has to keep the defensive intensity up
• Joel Embiid, who scored only 3 points when Marc Gasol was on the floor, missed morning shoot around with a stomach bug. He is listed as probable for the game

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Maestro - "416/905"

Drake was among the many courtside celebrities at game 1, but he was not the first Toronto rapper to rhyme about the various burroughs and area codes of the GTA. Maestro "Fresh" Wes had a resurgence the late 90's and was very proud of his Canadian roots. I get a kick out of the employees ar "Maestro Headquarters" jammin' to the beat as they are hard at work.

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Sam '76 Beer

This one could also be used if the Raptors ever do a cross over game and play the New England Patriots. Of course it's from the Boston brewing company known as Samuel Adams, they call it an American Lager. Very patriotic

Raptors lead series 1-0!

Game 82: Raptors at Timberwolves!

Playoffs are coming...

• It's the final game of the regular season for the Raptors and the final game of the year for the Minnesota Timberwolves. They unveiled a Game Of Thrones themed logo, i guess in honour of the new season starting this weekend. The Raptors have bigger fish to fry however, as the post season looms in their future. Minnesota finds themselves on the outside looking in once again.
• Elsewhere in the NBA, the Nets, Magic, Hornets, Heat and Pistons are fighting for their playoff lives as the Eastern Conference standings have yet to be finalized. It also has yet to bear Toronto's first round match up
• Raptors have signed Centre Eric Moreland for the remainder of the season, rounding out their 15 man play off line up. The Timberwolves are down big for their final game. Derrick Rose, Jeff Teague, Robert Covington, Luol Deng, Jerryd Bayless and Taj Gibson are all out on this final game.

Tonight's Raptor Track!

The Tragically Hip - " The Dire Wolf"

The Timberwolves still have one of the best prospects from Canada on their team in Andrew Wiggins and one of the greatest Canadian bands is the Tragically Hip. In honour of their name change tonight, here is the song "The Dire Wolf" from In Violet Light by The Hip

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Minnesota Gold Lager

Brought to us by the Third Street Brewhosue, this golden lager is 4.9% and available all year round!

Raptors 2nd in East 57-24! Timberwolves 11th in West 36-44!

Game 81: Heat at Raptors!

Last Regular Home Game!

• The Heat come to town in what might be Dywane Wade's last time playing in Toronto, for a Noon start battle of the Eastern Conference. Miami's play off hopes dangle by a thread, will the Raptors spoil their dream?
• Kawhi Leonard will play tonight as there are no reports of load management. Patrick McCaw still sits with a bruised thumb.
• For the Heat only Josh Richardson is out with a pulled groin. Insert joke here. Dion Waiters is back for Miami and they're hoping he's firing on all cylinders as only 2 regular season games remain for both teams

Today's Raptor Track!

The Prodigy - "The Heat (The Energy)"

This year we lost Keith Flint, the iconic horn-haired singer from UK's Prodigy. There was a time in the late 90's when they had world domination firm in their grasp. Though he didn't join the band until after this album, he will forever be associated with those golden years for the band

Today's Game Day Drink!

High Noon

High Noon is an ale brewed in Ontario by the Publican House. This light wheat beer is unfiltered and gently accented with traditional hops.

Raptors 2nd in East 56-24! Heat 9th in East 38-41!

Game 79: Raptors at Nets!

Playoff Preview?

• In what could possibly be the first round match-up in next week's Play Offs, the Raptors are in Brooklyn to take on the Nets
• Brooklyn's D'Angelo Russell has been having a remarkable year and is one of the main reasons the Nets are all but guaranteed a playoff spot. Some feel he's a lock for Most Improved Player this year, but Toronto's Pascal Siakam is making almost a bigger case for the award with his increased role and productivity with the Raptors.
• Danny Green jammed his thumb in the game against Orlando, though he still managed to sink seven 3s in that game. He should be available tonight. Anunoby and McCaw are still out. Allen Crabbe is the sole Net out for this one

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Beastie Boys - "No Sleep 'Til Brooklyn"

Start getting pumped now buds, playoffs are around the corner. Gotta take care of business in Brooklyn tonight! Hoo-Ah!!

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

2014 Riesling - Brooklyn Winery

The last time these 2 teams met in the playoffs it was 2014. The Nets won in 7 games, but they were 2 completely different teams.

Raptors 2nd in East 55-23! Nets 7th in East 39-39!

Game 78: Magic at Raptors!

A Brand New World

• The season is winding down and while these games might not mean a lot to the Raptors there are teams, like Orlando, still battling for a playoff appearance and positioning
• Patrick McCaw becomes the third Raptor this year to suffer a thumb injury. He's likely to be out a few weeks. A tough blow as his expertise would have been useful in the playoffs. OG Anunoby is still questionable due to a concussion
• The Magic are a tough team even though they are missing some key players. Mo Bamba, Markelle Fultz, Timofey Mozgov and Isaiah Briscoe are out due to injuries
• Congratulations to Kawhi Leonard and his wife on welcoming their 2nd child this weekend!

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Pantera - "Metal Magic"

I dig heavy metal, it was my first love. Pantera is a great heavy band, but I get a kick out of their early hair metal days. Hair metal has it's place, but Pantera didn't really find their footing in the music world until they discovered their brutal side

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

I-4 IPA

Made by the Orlando Brewing company, the I-4 has a 5.8% ABV and pours a dark honey colour with minimal lacing

Raptors 2nd in East 54-23! Magic 9th in East 38-39!

Game 76: Raptors at Knicks!

Big Apple; Small Stakes

• Raptors hit the road again after a win over the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday. The Knicks have already been eliminated from Playoff Contention this year, but their focus is all about the off season and the many free agents who might be willing to listen
• OG Anunoby took a blow to the head on Tuesday and left the game without returning. He passed concussion protocol but is being held out of tonight's line-up as a precaution along with Kawhi Leonard. Raptors have signed Jodie Meeks for the remainder of the season. He'll likely get some burn tonight
• For the Knicks they have a list of questionable players. Kevin Knox, Dennis Smith Jr,  and Alonzo Trier. Only player listed as out is Noah Vonleh.

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Jideena - "Knickers"

This song is about pants.....yes??

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Whiskey & Coke

With only 6 games left in the regular season, it's time to get serious. For me to warm up to a nice play off blast, I need to start with a few of these sweet babies. Cheers y'all!

Raptors 2nd in East 52-23! Knicks 15th in East 14-60!

Game 73: Thunder at Raptors!

Welcome Home!

• Second night of a home & home for the Thunder and Raptors and it just so happens to be a Welcome To Toronto night in the 6ix. Meaning the Raps will don their White and Gold attire
• Raptors won in overtime in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, so expect the Thunder to come with a fire inside. Paul George didn't play exceptionally well in game 1 so he's fixing to have a big night
• Kyle Lowry will sit again due to his sore ankle. Fred Van Vleet gets the start. For the Thunder on Andre Roberson is sidelined with a knee injury

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Coheed & Cambria - "Welcome Home"

An epic track for an epic night & game. 

Tonight's Game Day Drink

Ridgeway Warm Welcome

A Brown ale with real attitude...apparently! Coming from North Heath, England it's a hearty beer at 6.0%ABV , but still maybe a little tame for English standards! Enjoy tonight as a wee bit of snow has fallen...

Raptors 2nd in East 51-21! Thunder 5th in West 42-30!

Game 72: Raptors at Thunder!

Home and Home!

• Raptors head back out West for their first match against the Oklahoma City Thunder of the 2018-19 season! Thunder are always a pesky adversary, Raptors will need to be at their peak!
• Kyle Lowry injured his ankle in the win against the Knicks on Monday night, so he's unlikely to go tonight. Serge Ibaka returns from suspension and Fred Van Vleet had played the last 2 games without missing a beat seemingly. Great to have Fred back
• The Thunder are a tough team who only got tougher this year. Paul George re-signed in the off season, Jerami Grant has improved this year and they picked up Markieff Morris after he was waived by the Wizards. Of course can't forget about #0 Russell Westbrook, who is always a dominant force, he returns from suspension as well tonight. Should be a good one!

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Sutton Foster - "Oklahoma"

This one is from the Stage production Oklahoma!  It always gets suggested whenever the Raptors play the Thunder, so fine, here I am giving in. Thought i'd do a more modern and female take on the song however

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Homegrown American Lager

Best thing I could find with Home in it's title for this home and home that Raptors and Thunder are a part of. I'll try and find another one for Friday night's game in Toronto

Raptors 2nd in East 50-21! Thunder 5th in West 42-28!

Game 69: Lakers at Raptors!

The Once & Former King?

• Raptors looking to bounce back after an ugly loss to Cleveland on Monday. The last time Raptors lost to Cleveland was during the 2018 playoffs, which is also the last time that LeBron James was in town. The circumstances are much different tonight
• Raptors will need to win without Serge Ibaka who is suspended for 3 games after going after Marquese Chriss and throwing a few punches. Chriss got 1 game. Raptors sign PF Eric Moreland to a 10-day contract to fill the void. Fred Van Vleet remains out, though he has started practicing with the team again
• The Lakers' season hasn't gone they way they hoped. Struggling for a playoff spot and dealing with many injury issues. Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram are both out for the remainder of the season

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Red Hot Chili Peppers - "Magic Johnson"

Magic was a phenomenal player, no doubt. As a GM though, he hasn't got the greatest track record and this disappointing season must have him a little worried about his job security. Anthony Kiedis and the Chilis still believe in ya though! Here's a track from 1989's Mother's Milk when things were much happier in lala land.

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Spring Laker

This chilled-out, bro-ish drank was invented in Spring Lake, NJ. It's One part Vodka, 2 parts Red Bull and a splash of pineapple juice!

Raptors 2nd in East 48-20! Lakers 11th in West 31-36!

Game 68: Raptors at Cavaliers!

The East Moves Through Cleveland

• Raptors took care of business last night in Miami and look for another W on this, the second night of a back to back in Cleveland to take on the suffering Cavaliers
• Kawhi Leonard should be playing tonight after sitting out last night's game.  Cleveland is seeing a slew of injuries from players like Tristan Thompson, John Henson, and Larry Nance Jr. Also the enigmatic JR Smith has still yet to play for Cleveland this season
• Patrick McCaw got the start in last night's game for Leonard and performed well. After nearly 6 months on the free-agent market McCaw initially signed with the Cavaliers, after being waived 3 games later, the Raptors were quick to snatch him up

Tonight's Raptor Track!

Drake - "Back To Back"

I could really pick a Drake song for every game I guess due to his affiliation with the Raptors. "Back To Back" is apparently a diss track aimed at Meek Mill, who is from Philadelphia. 

Tonight's Game Day Drink!

Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon

Well the Cavaliers jerseys are considered "Wine and Gold" I guess

Raptors 2nd in East 48-19! Cavaliers 14th in East 16-50!