2019 NBA Playoffs: Toronto Raptors vs. Orlando Magic preview

ORLANDO, FL - NOVEMBER 20: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors handles the ball against Aaron Gordon #00 of the Orlando Magic on November 20, 2018 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Key Matchup: Kyle Lowry vs. D.J. Augustin

Kyle Lowry is the longest-tenured member of this Raptors team, and it’s his play at both ends of the floor that serves as the engine for everything they do.

This season, the five-time All-Star has taken a step back in the scoring department with his lowest scoring average since 2012-13, instead focusing more of his energy on dishing the ball and averaging a career-high 8.7 assists per game, likely due to the emergence of Pascal Siakam as a legitimate go-to option.

His reputation as a postseason choker is somewhat exaggerated. Lowry averaged 17.4 points a night in the 2018 NBA Playoffs on 50.8 percent shooting, but with the continued increase in mileage on his body, one has to wonder if he can continue the physical brand of basketball that’s made him such a terror on both sides.

Not much has been made of what D.J. Augustin is doing in running the show for the Magic. The 10-year veteran has been a steady presence for this young Orlando squad, averaging 11.7 points and 5.3 assists per game while shooting 42.1 percent from downtown.

The point guard position has been Orlando’s Achilles heel all season long. Augustin has been dependable, but he’s not one to fill up a box score and carry his team.

We’ve seen Lowry take over postseason games in the past. If he’s able to replicate his All-Star level of play, it’ll be hard for the Magic to close the gap in this matchup of floor generals.