Since June 13, 2019, watching Toronto Raptors games has been a rather tranquil experience. Sure, I’d smile and high-five with a win and get a little steamed after a loss, but the emotions were never too extreme. With the pandemic-induced extension on the Raptors’ run as defending champions, I subconsciously thought this serenity was my new normal. Game 2 of their series with the Boston Celtics, however, reminded me all too bluntly of my paroxysmal nature, a commonplace feeling when I would watch my favourite basketball team play.
Game 2 started innocently enough, with a slight raise in heart rate in the first half when it became clear the Celtics would not allow the Raptors to run away with it.