Toronto Raptors: 3 takeaways from Game 1 vs. Wizards

3. The Wizards will not go down without a fight

The Washington Wizards weren’t the favorites coming into Game 1 Saturday. They sure didn’t play like underdogs once everything was said and done. We mentioned earlier about John Wall and Markieff Morris having nice performances, but others stepped up as well.

Bradley Beal finished with 19 points to go with three steals and four assists. Marcin Gortat provided 12 points and six rebounds and sixth man Mike Scott microwaved his way into 14 points. Scott also gave the NBA their first taste of playoff chippiness with a hockey-style shoulder check on Kyle Lowry early in the fourth quarter.

Some may argue that foul was the turning point in the game as the Wiz were up three before Toronto soon made a run. The Wizards can also argue Saturday wasn’t their best showing as John Wall shot 6-for-20 on the evening. We know Beal has bigger performances in store as well.

If the Wiz can continue to play together, they’re talented enough to beat almost anybody. It’s looking like the Raptors will have to bring their A-game if they want to avoid a first round upset.