Toronto Raptors: 5 Takeaways From Their Playoff Run

May 23, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Recording artist Drake celebrates after Toronto Raptors score a basket in a 105-99 win over Cleveland Cavaliers in game four of the Eastern conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

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Feb 2, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) and guard DeMar DeRozan (10) against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Raptors defeated the Suns 104-97. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Lowry and DeRozan proved they can play well when it matters

Another first-round exit would have been devastating for the Toronto Raptors. They narrowly escaped that fate against the Indiana Pacers in the first round, even if it came in controversial fashion.

A third year with a first-round exit would likely force Masai Ujiri’s hand in breaking up one of the best backcourt duos in the NBA.

While Lowry struggled with an elbow injury and DeRozan hurt his shooting hand against the Heat, the duo found a way to tough it out and lead their team when it mattered.

DeRozan averaged 23 points per game on 50 percent shooting in the conference finals while Lowry contributed 20.2 points and 4.2 assists per game on 47 percent shooting.

The duo was a legitimate handful once the regained regular season for and put fear in the Cavaliers showing that they wouldn’t roll over and hand them the series. After this run it seems likely that this duo will remain together at least for next year.

Next: Valanciunas takes next step

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