Raptors to play Warriors and Nuggets in Fifth Annual Canada Series

Despite there being only one Canadian team remaining in the NBA (moment of silence for the Grizz), the Raptors are getting set for the fifth iteration of the annual pre-season Canada Series in October.

This time out, the Raptors take their pre-season show out to Rogers Arena in Vancouver on Oct. 1 to take on the Golden State Warriors, and follow it up with a game in Calgary’s Saddledome against the Denver Nuggets on Oct. 3.

The appeal of both these games, pre-season or not, is obvious. In the Warriors, Canadians and Raptors fans get an early chance to see the new Lineup of Death with Kevin Durant. (But, I mean, don’t let it distract you from the fact the Warriors had a 3-1 series lead in the Finals.) With the Nuggets, Canadian Jamal Murray will take the court for the first time professionally in his home and native land. It’s good stories all around.

Tickets will go on sale for both games on September 2nd. Or, if you don’t have the wherewithal to attend in person, be advised both games will be broadcast nationally on TSN.

Now here’s reigning MVP Steph Curry with a canned quote to get you fired up:

“As someone who spent some time as a kid growing up in Canada, I’m really looking forward to our preseason game in Vancouver as part of the NBA Canada Series. The fans throughout Canada have always had a tremendous passion for basketball and the NBA, and to have the opportunity to visit such a beautiful city and play in that exciting environment is going to be a lot of fun.”

Giddy up, Canada.