Raptors vs. Celtics: It's Basketball Night in Canada

Team Records: Boston 12-22, Toronto 24-11.

Where to Watch: Sportsnet 360, Fan 590 (Radio)

The Raptors take the floor tonight looking to rebound from what was arguably the worst loss of the season Thursday night. They were thoroughly outplayed by a Hornets team that was on the second night of a back-to-back after being off since Sunday. The defence allowed far too much dribble penetration with no resistance, and even without Al Jefferson, the Hornets were able to dominate the glass for most of the game. The offensive side of the ball was also a struggle, as an exhausted Kyle Lowry was too burdened trying to carry the load. The awful shot selection of Lou Williams and Greivis Vasquez completely stunted any flow to the offence.

All that being said, the Raps still have to be favoured tonight as this game against the Celtics couldn't come at a better time. Danny Ainge has gone full tank officially, when yesterday he traded both Jeff Green and Brandan Wright to the Grizzlies and Suns, respectively. With the Celtics seemingly added and subtracting players from their roster weekly, Brad Stevens is in a constant state of testing lineups and play styles. If the Raps want to win tonight, they need to jump out early on the inexperienced Celtics and start moving the ball on offence the way we saw during the dominant home stand in mid December.

After being benched for most of the second half Thursday, look for Jonas Valanciunas to have a big night against the Celtics front line of Kelly Olynyk and Tyler Zeller. If Lowry is able to get JV going early with some post touches leading to makes, a double double is certainly in the cards for the big fella.

The Raps take centre stage in Toronto tonight, and hopefully put on a show good enough to earn their first win of 2015.

You guys ready? Let's get in the comments.