The Raptors are back in Tampa after a loss in Boston to the Celtics. Not the best turn of events, but the mood is generally more settled than that. The Raptors now know they will spend the rest of the year in Florida, which is disappointing but at least offers the comfort of certainty; meanwhile, they’ve been playing much better than their 2-8 start to the season, which provides additional assurances too.
Toronto’s opponent tonight, the Minnesota Timberwolves, feel like a team forever reeling. Despite numerous lottery picks over the years, including a few number one selections (both two of their own, and a pair earned via trade), the Timberwolves have never managed to feel particularly threatening as a franchise.