Raptors vs. Pistons: Toronto tips-off the 2016-17 season

For the start of their 2016-17 NBA season, the Raptors welcome the Detroit Pistons to the ACC. These are the base facts of it, but of course there's a lot more going on. For one, look at these shirts!

IN THE YEEEAAARRR TWOOOO THOUSAAAAND pic.twitter.com/PO46Vg43fv

— Daniel Reynolds (@aka_Reynolds) October 26, 2016

Apparently the entire pre-game extravaganza promised on the ACC's giant screen is to be 3D. We are living in the future.

For two, concern yourselves with Raptors injuries:

- Jared Sullinger is out for months.

- Lucas Nogueira is out tonight, but hopeful for Friday.

- Delon Wright, yes, still out.

Then we get to number three, the rotation. Dwane Casey is playing things close to the vest, as is his custom. We don't officially know who the starting power forward is right now, but the smart money says Pascal Siakam. We do know that Terrence Ross is currently ahead of Norman Powell in the rotation -- but we don't know exactly what that means yet. As for the rest of the team's minutes: expect Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan to play a lot. After that, get those guesses ready.

Honestly, I just want to rock out right now. The Raptors are taking the court in 30 minutes. The Pistons are here (with Boban, mind you) and we're getting a gotdamn 3D light show. What a time to be alive.

Now read my preview, with more stats and facts and thoughts. And then, hoooo boy, let's get a Raptors chant going in the comments.

The NBA season arrives in Canada. Let's go Raptors.