Ranking Potential Playoff Opponents For The Toronto Raptors
By Justin Rowan
2. Atlanta Hawks
The Raptors have enjoyed an undefeated 2-0 record so far this season against the Hawks. With two games remaining between these teams, Toronto could do a lot to try and force them to the bottom half of the conference.
What makes them a desirable matchup:
Familiarity is key. Even last season when the Atlanta Hawks raced to the best record in the Eastern Conference, they were a team that Toronto had success against. That trend has continued this season, even though the Raptors have missed former Hawks defensive ace DeMarre Carroll.
Like the Raptors, the Hawks have consistently come up short of expectations in the playoffs. With the tables turned and the Raptors in possession of the better roster, they should be able to capitalize on the Hawks’ playoff demons if they get out to an early series lead.
What makes them dangerous:
The flip side of that previous sentiment is that the Raptors also have had issues in the playoffs in the past and with the Hawks boasting the league’s second best defensive rating, they are capable of making things difficult for the Dinos.
Al Horford, Paul Millsap, Jeff Teague and Kyle Korver were All-Stars last season and they are well coached. While they may not have the same depth as Toronto, they still aren’t a team you can take lightly.
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