The Raptors will finish with the top record in the East, but not make the ECF
The Toronto Raptors are currently two games ahead of the Boston Celtics and seven games ahead of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference standings. Barring anything unusual, the Raptors should finish with the best record in the East and homecourt throughout the playoffs.
With that said, I’ve seen this story all too many times. And I know the ending.
But, before you attack me, I know what you Raptors fans are going to say. This is different. These aren’t the same Raptors. We’ve learned.
And perhaps you’re right.
The Raptors certainly aren’t the same as previous seasons. DeMar DeRozan has expanded his game and their bench is lethal. I just don’t buy it. I can’t.
In the end, the Raptors will finish with the best record in the East, but will also fail to make the Eastern Conference Finals.