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We’ve said it all week but now it’s finally here: the Raptors are in the 2019 NBA Finals. After 24 long years, we made it.
Let’s just bask in this moment for one more second.
Now then. The Raptors opponent for the next four to seven games is none other than the Golden State Warriors, two-time defending champs, winner of three of the last four titles, and an entrant into the last four Finals series. It’s a lot. But unfortunately for their fans, it’s not everything. This version of the Warriors are currently without the all-world talents of Kevin Durant, whose absence may surcharge Golden State’s other all-world talent or open the door for Toronto to go for the upset. It really just depends on who you ask.
Under the gun (a.k.a. the camera) today on Global News, I said the Raptors would win in seven games. The optimism is high right now because, well, the Raptors have been playing better and better over the past couple of weeks — why not go all the way? With Kawhi Leonard, Kyle Lowry, Pascal Siakam, and the rest, there is enough firepower on this Toronto team to at least give the Warriors a run for their money, right? Did you see the lines forming all day outside the Scotiabank Arena? We have to believe.
Still, it’s just Game 1. Not to lean on a cliche here, but we all must take this Finals series one game at a time. What’s more, we have to enjoy it. We must. We may never find ourselves here again. A grim thought? Perhaps — but also something beautiful. The Raptors are in the 2019 NBA Finals. Win or lose, it has already happened.
Below are your updated game details, here’s the full Game 1 preview from Dylan Litman, and now, let’s watch.
Where to Watch:
Sportsnet, 9:00pm EST
Lineups:
Toronto – Kyle Lowry, Danny Green, Kawhi Leonard, Pascal Siakam, Marc Gasol
Golden State – Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Andre Iguodala, Draymond Green, Jordan Bell
Injuries:
Toronto – OG Anunoby (abdomen – questionable)
Golden State – Kevin Durant (calf – out), DeMarcus Cousins (quad – available)