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Toronto Raptors: 5 keys to series vs. Magic

By Jonathan Turco

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 1: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball as D.J. Augustin #14 of the Orlando Magic defends during the second half of an NBA game at Scotiabank Arena on April 1, 2019 in Toronto, Canada. 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. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - APRIL 1: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball as D.J. Augustin #14 of the Orlando Magic defends during the second half of an NBA game at Scotiabank Arena on April 1, 2019 in Toronto, Canada. 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. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /
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3. Staying focused

The Toronto Raptors are no strangers to the American media spotlight, getting TNT and ESPN nationally televised games to start the series. They have an abundance of playoff experiences over the Magic’s youthful roster, so utilizing that experience and staying focus on and off the court will help them win.

Orlando at this time of the year has great weather, making it difficult when they visit to not get distracted by the weather, attractions and nightlife. Staying focused, getting through this series regardless of the outside noise, and being in the moment is key.

One of the most important aspects of playoff basketball is mental strength, and this year in particular, adding the experience of two champions, one of which was a Finals MVP, and guys with successful playoff runs like Gasol and Ibaka, will help keep the team focused and hungry for a championship.

Everyone should be dialed in, not taking the Magic lightly. They understand the defensive prowess of their competition and key matchups they will have in former Raptors, Terrence Ross and D.J. Augustin, All-Star center Nikola Vucevic and lengthy/athletic defenders in Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac.

Even rookie head coach Nick Nurse has shown throughout the season that he is more than capable, quick to his feet calling timely timeouts, coming out of those timeouts with a strong plan and guiding his team to highly efficient basketball. It is amazing the Raptors deployed 22 different starting lineups this season, while not having either All-Star for more than 65 games.

Nurse, along with the veteran leadership, will keep Toronto’s eyes focused on the goal of competing in the Finals and showing fans what this team is truly made of.

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