NBA: 10 Storylines To Watch In The 2015-16 Playoffs

Can The Raptors Break Out Of Their First Round Playoff Curse?

The Toronto Raptors have only won one playoff series in the history of their franchise. In fairness, they’ve only been to the playoffs seven times in their 20 year existence, prior to this season, but still. And considering the last time we saw this Raptors team in the playoffs they were being swept by the Washington Wizards, I suppose it’s only human to question them.

Same head coach, same core players. It makes sense. But, at the same time, it doesn’t.

Yes, DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry are still two of the key cogs on the Raptors, but they’ve been two very different players this season. Both are experiencing career years and have been exceptional. Their supporting cast is also better than it was a year ago. Not to mention that this team’s big summer acquisition, DeMarre Carroll, missed more than half the season. He’s back now.

Toronto is far from that team we saw last season roll over in the playoffs against the Wizards. The Raptors are coming off their best regular season in franchise history. This team is not going to lose in the first round. They’re going to make a lot of noise in the Eastern Conference. Perhaps even all the way to the NBA Finals.

Next: Dark Horse Out West?