With the Raptors having under 20 games left until the playoffs. The push to escape the NBA play-in tournament is stressful for both players and fans. After coming off the all star break the Raptors have fallen into a small slump with Fred shooting under 40% from 3 along with OG Anunoby being on the Injury report for weeks now with a messed up finger.
So how are the Raptors going to get out? Well they are going to have to simply step up to the plate. Without a timetable for OG and with Gary seeming to rest before playoffs with him resting against the Chicago bulls. The Raptors have a big game against Cleveland and that is a must win for the raptors. The Raptors are one win away from the Cavs and if they beat them they will be tied for 6 in the division.
But that doesn't mean it's going to be an easy game. The most highlighted matchup of that game is probably going to be the Scottie Barnes and Evan Mobley matchup as they are in the Top 3 of the ROTY award. Other than that the Cavaliers are a well oiled team and can move the ball well so the Raptors are going to have to stay active for all 48 minutes of play because these games are due or die for avoiding the play-in tournament. No one wants to face the Brooklyn Nets and Kevin Durant to decide whether they make playoffs or not so the Raptors are in an interesting position, but one they should be eager or actively trying to get out of.