3 critical X-factors that will impact Toronto Raptors in playoffs
By Jason Mills
2. Struggles at home.
The Raptors started this season 2-8 at home. After a Friday night loss to the Lakers, the Raptors fell to 17-16 at home despite a midseason turnaround. A return to the friendly confines of Toronto hasn’t seen this team return to its dominant days when opponents dreaded playing in Toronto.
Toronto won 58 home games in the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. Winning on the road helps build character. However, defending their home court is paramount for a successful playoff run.
The Toronto Raptors have struggled at home.
While Toronto is almost certain not to get a home playoff series, they will need to defend their home turf if they want any hope of upsetting a favorite in a playoff series. If the Pistons and Magic can walk into Toronto and get a win, why shouldn’t teams like Philadelphia or Milwaukee feel confident?
2022 hasn’t been perfect. COVID-19 concerns and protocols did mean reduced crowd size and atmosphere during home games until recently. Hopefully, as the season winds down and those restrictions have again been eased, the Raptors can relax and enjoy and take advantage of the energy their fans provide from the sidelines.