Ever since the Raptors traded for Kawhi Leonard, a bona fide MVP candidate with a propensity for defensive intensity, the same nightmare has been running through my head. As I drift off to sleep, I picture myself in the Air Canada Centre (I refuse to call it the Scotiabank Arena) filled with fans. It’s opening night for the 2018-19 NBA season, and the players are warming up before the game begins.
Suddenly, it’s time. “Basketball fans,” Raptors’ public address announcer Herbie Kuhn bellows, “please welcome the starters for your Toronto Raptors!” One by one, he introduces the starters to roaring and welcoming applause.