Toronto Raptors: 3 takeaways from Game 2 vs. Wizards
By Chris Conner
3. The fast start
In one of the five keys to the series last week, we discussed how important fast starts were. Given the nature of the Wizards’ chemistry, we figured an early deficit could spell doom the 8-seed. Teams that are together and are tight-knit groups don’t get rattled or point fingers when losing.
The Wizards, however, aren’t currently one of those teams.
https://twitter.com/nbainside_stuff/status/986422475599876097?s=21
The video above shows a clearly frustrated Bradley Beal and a disagreement between both John Wall and Marcin Gortat. It’s a true microcosm of their season. We probably don’t see this conflict without the Raps taking it to Washington early.
The Raptors scored 44 first quarter points (a franchise record) and led the Wiz by double-digits throughout the game. DeMar DeRozan (who we’ll speak about later) finished with 13 points in the opening period. It’ll be interesting to see if the Raps can carry this mindset into D.C as Game 3 awaits.