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5 reasons Raptors fans can be optimistic for the playoffs

By Graeme Klayh

Mar 23, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; The Toronto Raptors players huddle prior to their game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; The Toronto Raptors players huddle prior to their game against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 18, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Luis Scola (4) moves past Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley (0) in the first quarter at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Peter Llewellyn-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 18, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Luis Scola (4) moves past Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley (0) in the first quarter at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Peter Llewellyn-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Luis Scola: X-factor

The backlash at Luis Scola this season has been incredible. He stole the starting spot from Patrick Patterson in the early goings, and played well enough to support his team into December. Since the New Year, the decline has been very real. He lags on defense, and his offense has been sparse. A call has been beckoned to insert Patterson back in the starting lineup, but in the last couple of weeks Scola has been coming on.

In his last 10 games, Scola has shot 52.6% from the field and 46.7% from the three-point line. This is an incredible feat considering he only hit 10 threes in first 8 years in the league (up to 55 this year!). His floor spacing capabilities, mixed with his savvy old-man game will benefit the Raptors team in ways we can only imagine. His defense will have to be accepted so long as he can help this team at the 4 spot.

The timing couldn’t be better as the playoffs are coming quickly. In the playoffs, when the opposing teams lock down on Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan, there will need to be some other players able to carry the load; enter Luis Scola. His veteran leadership can go a long way in the playoffs, and he has the aptitude to help lead this previously unsuccessful squad to a series victory.

Next: Biz is gonna get Bizzy

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