After ignoring the Toronto Raptors for most of their 25-year existence, cities across the United States are suddenly falling all over themselves offering refuge to the 2019 champions.
Putting aside the absurdity of regarding the States — with nearly 10 million total cases — as a COVID-19 haven, there is a unique challenge facing the Raptors. There are travel restrictions at the Canadian border, and short of the exceptions being expanded or a medical miracle ending the pandemic, there will be significant logistical hurdles to hosting NBA games in Canada.
The Raptors are fighting to stay in market, but it’s an uphill battle.