How Much Has Drake Factored into the Raptors' Resurgence?
By Kyle Koster
The Cleveland Cavaliers thoroughly embarrassed the Toronto Raptors in the first two games of the Eastern Conference Finals. Once the series shifted to Canada, everything changed. We’re now looking at a best-of-three sprint and pressure is mounting on the tested shoulders of LeBron James and untested shoulders of Kyrie Irving, Kevin Love and Tyronn Lue.
There are many reasons the Raptors have been able to get up off the mat and show signs of life.
Kyle Lowry: Went 8-for-28 with 18 points in the first two games. Has rebounded to go 21-for-33 and 55 points in Toronto. Went from taking mental breaks to being a leader on the floor.
DeMar DeRozan: Also good.
Bismack Biyombo: Has averaged 20 rebounds per game in the two victories and been omnipresent on the defensive end after being a non-factor. Is playing with intense energy and emotion.
Improved perimeter defense: The Raptors have dared the Cavs to beat them from the three-point line and it’s paying off. After torching the nets from deep in their first 10 playoff games, Cleveland has misfired (27-for-82) in two straight losses.
Dwane Casey: Is making Lue look like a rookie coach. Is playing chess while his opponent plays checkers.
All of these factors are being discussed by the so-called experts today. But they are overlooking the real reason why Toronto is flirting with an enormous upset.
According to Drake, Drake is very responsible for the resurgence.
The rapper was in attendance for Game 4 after missing Game 3 and showed no signs of rust. He was ready to cheer for the home team and taunt the opposition from the opening tip. He had the stamina to continue to troll the vanquished Cavs after the final horn.
I’ve done a 180 on Drake. His antics used to bother me but now I just can’t get enough. The guy is one of the biggest stars in the world and it appears nothing makes him as genuinely happy as watching the Raptors play basketball. He has to know what a nerd he looks like while sitting courtside but remains committed to his fandom.
That said, it’s only a matter of time until LeBron and Kyrie combine for 70 points and necessitate a sad emoji post from our buddy Aubrey. May as well enjoy the good times while they last.