Here are 10 takeaways from the Toronto Raptors’ 107-92 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in the first of eight seeding games ahead of the 2019-20 NBA playoffs.
One — Statement: This was a perfect showcase as to why the Raptors remain a legitimate title contender even after losing the Finals MVP. The same formula for success remains: Share the ball, and defend like all hell. The Lakers couldn’t get anything going all night, and in crunch time, it was the Raptors who ran away with the win. It’s not a mirage — the Raptors have played like defending champions all season, and their signature intensity and execution remains sharp even after the long layoff.