The Toronto Raptors began the first game of their new-look era with a dreadful first quarter. The defensive woes which had brought to its knees an excellent start to the season were once again in evidence. The visiting Boston Celtics strolled down the lane for easy layups again and again. Meantime, Toronto’s offense, already handicapped due to the unavailability of Kyle Lowry (more on that later), had no flow.
Raptors fans were getting increasingly depressed as the Celtics built their lead to 17 points with just over a minute to play in Q2.