Raptors vs Celtics Gameday Thread: Bargnani Returns as Dinos Host Streaking Celtics

Remember Andrea Bargnani? You know, this guy, this guy, and oh yeah, this guy? Well he's back, and no one is excited about it.

Andrea Bargnani has returned from his conveniently timed injury, and will dress for tonight's game against the Celts. Despite what most fans would like to think, he's going to get playing time. Brian Colangelo has been very public about his willingness to deal Andrea, but with his trade value at its all-time worst, there's a low chance BC would be able to deal Andrea without teams seeing Bargnani in action. It's not the ideal situation, but if he has to prove he can play in order to get traded, I'm okay with that. And maybe he'll hit a couple threes along the way...? Maybe..?

Anyways, the Raptors host the Celtics in tonight's match up. Since losing Rondo for the year to a torn ACL, the Celtics have been playing inspired ball, winning four in a row, including wins over the Heat and Clippers. They have been sharing the ball at an impressive rate, racking up 24.8 apg in the last four games, compared to their yearly average of 23.2 apg. The turnovers have also been down, as the team is doing a great job of taking care of the ball.

The Celtics sit in the coveted 8th place in the East, a spot the Raptors hope to find themselves in by April. The Celtics recent surge has gotten the Raptors 7 1/2 games back of Boston, a very disappointing stat, considering how well the Raptors have played of late. However, tonight is a perfect opportunity to gain ground as they face the Celts, and hope to end the night back just 6 1/2 games.

GO RAPS!!!