Toronto Raptors: 15 greatest NBA playoff moments

6. 2014 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals: Game 5 vs. Nets

Although the 2014 playoff series versus Brooklyn Nets is viewed mainly as a disappointment, there were some great playoff moments along the way. The best “on the court” moment (from a Raptors perspective) was Game 5, with the series tied at two apiece.

The Air Canada Centre was electric. It was Toronto’s first playoff series in five seasons. With the series tied, the winner of Game 5 would be in complete control.

At the end of the first quarter, Toronto took a three-point lead. Kyle Lowry and Amir Johnson scored eight and nine points respectively, helping the Raptors take advantage of a rambunctious Canada crowd.

At the half, their lead ballooned to 18. By the end of the third, it was up to 22. Lowry had 28 points, five assists, and zero turnovers after three quarters, controlling the entire game.

With the game almost certainly decided, the Nets started the fourth quarter by letting it rip. Mirza Teletovic hit a couple of shots, Deron Williams hit a couple of free-throws and Joe Johnson was making everything.

All of a sudden, the game didn’t look as decided. With six minutes left, the Nets were within striking distance. Then, with 3:20 left, Joe Johnson hit a monster triple. All of a sudden, the game was tied.

Toronto managed to take back a five-point lead with just 10 seconds remaining. Again, it appeared as if the game was essentially over. However, Amir Johnson broke the golden rule of not fouling a jump shooter. Allen Anderson hit a corner 3-pointer while being fouled, earning a four-point play. The lead was down to one.

Both teams played the foul game. Down two, Brooklyn needed to miss a free-throw to have a chance at winning. Andray Blatche missed it and Brooklyn secured the rebound. Then unexpectedly, the Nets threw the ball into the backcourt. It caused a backcourt violation, essentially sealing the game. For good this time.