Was it fans forgetting what it’s like to lose? Was it over-confidence after a supporting role turned heroic in the 2019 Finals? Was it a start to the 2019-20 season that had people convinced that a star was about to become a superstar?
Whatever the reason, the general turn of opinion on Pascal Siakam was sharp and blistering after the Raptors’ season ground to a halt against Boston in the East semifinal.
Fans expressed frustration in Instagram comments, called for trades, and criticized Siakam for a perceived unwillingness to attack when Toronto’s half court offense was stymied by a long, versatile Celtics defense.