The Toronto Raptors were tested severely, and survived. They waltzed into enemy country and sneaked out with a four-point win, barely enough to fend off the ageless Dwyane Wade’s 38 points. Despite the departure of Jonas Valanciunas due to a turned ankle, and a bunch of clanked shots from DeMar DeRozan, the return to form of Kyle Lowry propelled the Raptors into the series lead.
The Raptors looked like this win was in the bag early. JV had a double-double, but landed awkwardly after contesting a Dwyane Wade drive, and was helped to the bench. After that, the tension rose, as a 13-point lead disappeared.