Game 20 of the season has never been a must-win, for any team, ever. It sure does feel like Sunday’s tilt against the Magic is one for the Raptors, though. A mere week ago, things were looking rosy. The team had gone 6-1 since its 2-8 start, had just picked up an inspiring short-handed win over the Pacers, and the team’s rotation pieces seemed to be falling into place.
Three games, three losses, and a truly embarrassing defensive performance against the Kings on Friday night later, and the Raptors sit 7-12, barely clinging on to a positive point differential, and missing two of their five best players.