The Raptors have not made it easy on themselves in this NBA season, with months of fits and starts and stumbles. Why would now be any different?
Facing a significant test amid one of their hottest stretches of the season, the Raptors came up with an effort lacking in every aspect in a 119-108 loss in Washington on Thursday night.
The defeat created a virtual tie between the Raptors and Wizards for the final spot in the play-in games that will determine the final two post-season slots.
With 18 games left in the regular season — starting with a rematch in Washington on Saturday evening — the season isn’t circling the drain by any stretch.