*Record 9-9*
And just like that the series is tied up at 2-2. Who would have thought that the Raptors, after looking hopeless in Game 1 and 2, would win the next two to even up the series? I know I didn’t and chances are 90% of you reading this didn’t to. But if your a fan of competitive basketball, you have to love it. Hell, I want this series to go to seven. Before I get ahead of myself, here is my prediction for tonight’s game as the Raptors return to Cleveland.
Toronto Raptors @ Cleveland Cavaliers
The Raptors have showed us that they mean business. Not only that, but we were finally able to watch a game were both of Toronto’s all stars produce to their offensive standards. DeRozan provided 32 points on 14-23 shooting; however, it was Kyle Lowry who stole the show Monday night. The Villanova product dropped 35 points on 14-20 shooting, including 4-7 behind the arc. Just as in previous games, Biyombo controlled the paint and the Raptors received production from their bench, namely Joseph and Patterson. But now the Raptors return to Cleveland, where they were outscored in the first two games by a total of 50 points. LeBron James, who is coming off a 29 point game on 11-16 shooting, will look to bring back the dominance his team lost somewhere in Canada. Vegas has the Raptors as the 10.5 point underdog, which I believe has a lot to do with their previous performances in Cleveland. I think the Raptors make this one close, regardless of being on the road. They look like a different team than from the beginning of the series and have all the momentum. Not to mention that Valanciunas, who was active but did not play in Game 4, is expected to serve some sort of role in Game 5. Give me the Raptors ATS as I think it will be a close game tonight at Quicken Loans Arena.
Prediction: Toronto Raptors (+10.5, -110)
