Toronto Raptors won’t go down easily as they look to defend their crown

Should the Raptors be considered the favorites entering the playoffs?

This version of the Raptors may be more lethal than last year’s title-winning squad. For them not to have a true superstar on the roster, they are playing a very efficient brand of basketball.

While everyone is anticipating the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks to advance to the NBA Finals, people need to take notice and realize what this team is capable of. The Raptors have proven that they deserve to be in the championship conversation.

Earlier this season, from January 10 to February 15, the Raptors went on a 15-game winning streak, proving their consistency and being able to win games consecutively; something that teams need to succeed in the postseason.

Many view the Lakers as the favorites to win the championship this year, but the Raptors may have something to say about that as they have proved to match up well against the Lakers.

The Raptors defeated the Lakers in both head-to-head match-ups this season, winning by double-digits both times. During the second meeting, the Raptors held the Lakers to 35 percent shooting on 29 field goals made with 17 assists; all season lows.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis entered the second contest against the Raptors averaging a combined 52 points, but the superstar duo was held to 34 points combined.

Anyone sleeping on this Toronto Raptors team better wake up and realize the threat they pose to repeat as NBA champions once again.