We knew it was coming. After the loss to the Dallas Mavericks, the loss of DeMar DeRozan, and the, gasp, loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Toronto Raptors are now embroiled in their first losing streak of the season. OK, OK, it's only two games, and yes, using the word "streak" may be overstating it a tad, but it feels appropriately depressing. A couple more losses and we may be looking at a full-on skid.
Despite the feel-good LOOUUU vibes, and the inextinguishable competitive fire of Kyle Lowry, a slide in the Power Rankings was inevitable. At least Marc Stein understands our hardship:
9 |
6 Last Week: 3 |
Losing DeMar DeRozan to that nasty torn tendon (do not watch this replay) will inflict a more lasting sting than the losses to Dallas or the Lakers. No Toronto starter missed more than five games last season, so naturally it happens now as the Raps inch away from their favorable early schedule. |
But buck up, people! The Raptors have tonight off and then look to right the ship in back-to-back games against Sacramento and Utah (a winnable pair of games). Remember that Grevis Vasquez tossed in 19 points on 8-of-16 shooting as a starter last night in LA. And, that Tyler Hansbrough is back on the bench doing Hansbrough things.
All is not lost. Let's hit the poll.