The trade deadline action yesterday put the Raptors’ fanbase into a rollercoaster of emotions, as the team dealt fan favourite Norman Powell for Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood. Later on, the fanbase celebrated the failed Lowry trades. For one day, the Raptors’ issues were forgotten. However, their first game back reminded us of everything that’s gone wrong this season.
Toronto’s small-ball identity went toe-to-toe with the Phoenix Suns, getting excellent early contributions from Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam. However, Chris Paul and his crew are a force to be reckoned with this season. Paul dissected the Raptors defense at every turn, and Deandre Ayton and the rest of the Suns dominated the paint, 58-32.