Raptors vs. Wizards: The rivalry is real

I won't bore you with all the details. We know what it means for the Raptors to play the Washington Wizards. After last season's sweep in the playoffs, Toronto has something to prove, even if it is the preseason. We know. We know.

OK, it's the preseason. But still, the Raptors, fresh off Zach Lowe saying they'll finish closer to 8th than 2nd, have something to prove. Right now Kyle Lowry, newly skinny, is cooking. Meanwhile, new additions DeMarre Carroll, Cory Joseph and Bismack Biyombo are doing the things they're supposed to be doing. Sure, there is some concerns about the power forward spot. And Jonas is still lumbering along as Jonas. And no one seems to be high on DeMar DeRozan anymore. But the Raptors are looking at more upside than downside--forget what Lowe says.

The Wizards have John Wall, who, as I'm sure you're aware, is good at basketball. They also have Bradley Beal and the weirdly resurgent Otto Porter. But they have a plan to start (start?) Kris Humphries this year. Raptors fans are laughing. Good luck, Washington.

So here we go. Raptors vs. Washington. Preseason pride is on the line. And the game is in Montreal!

Let's get to the comments.