It’s still only early in the conference semi final stage of the playoffs but we’ve already seen it all, from record-setting blowouts to controversial final plays, mixed in with some overtime and a stunning comeback. Today we’re in for Game 2 of Raptors v Heat. Miami took Game 1 and home court advantage, in overtime. Will Toronto answer the bell in front of their fans… or does this series head to South Beach with the Raptors in a large hole?
Miami Heat @ Toronto Raptors
Much has already been made of the Toronto Raptors and their history of fading out of the playoffs. Despite getting by the Indiana Pacers in seven games, the questions will not have eased after a 102-96 overtime loss in Game 1 against the Miami Heat. A half-court heave from Kyle Lowry was needed to force the extra period and the Heat responded by scoring the first eight points in extra time, setting up the eventual win they always deserved. Although he hit the game-tying shot, Lowry’s postseason struggles were again on display. The All-Star point guard connected on just 3 of 13 from the field and 1 of 7 from beyond the arc. Yet, with their best player dramatically down on form, the Raptors still forced the game to overtime. The Big Dog sees this as a good sign for Game 2. It’s important to acknowledge just how good the Toronto Raptors have been at home, this season. They are a combined 35-11 and have not lost consecutive games at Air Canada Center since December 5th. After losing Game 1 in the series against the Pacers, Toronto bounced back to take Game 2 98-87. The Raptors also won the regular season series against the Heat 3-1, after dropping the first meeting. The average margin of victory for the Raptors in those last three games was 14 points. While The Big Dog is not suggesting that this will be a blowout to the home side, the smart money is definitely on the series to be locked at 1-1, heading to South Beach. Following a home loss since December 5th, the Raptors are 4-1-1 against this spread in their next home game. That’s a strong enough case to make this the “Play of the Day”.
Selection
Toronto Raptors -5.0 @ $1.95 (William Hill)
Tools
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