Toronto Raptors biggest advantages entering the NBA playoffs

1. Raptors have continuity and chemistry

Despite having the best defense in the NBA, having continuity and pre-existing chemistry is just as big of a strength entering this postseason. We’ve seen the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers both struggle and go 3-5 respectively in the bubble. Neither team looked like the powerhouses we anticipated after four months off.

But the Raptors seemingly locked in and dominated. They went 7-1 with wins over the Bucks, Lakers, and Miami Heat. Outside of the one loss to the Boston Celtics, the Raptors have looked like the most dangerous team in the NBA.

They are incredibly deep, and their bench gives them good production as well. In any given game the Raptors can go 12 deep if they need to. Having the experience of winning the NBA Finals last year is invaluable. If they were to advance, they’d have a leg up on their competition due to having navigated the Finals before. As a team, they shoot 79 percent from the foul line, which will pay dividends in high-pressure situations.

At the end of the day, success in an organization starts with its leaders. In the front office, coaching staff, and locker room, the Raptors have an abundance of leaders. The players all know their roles, and now it’s simply a matter of executing.