MEMPHIS—It is about fine-tuning now for the Toronto Raptors, about getting ready for the intensity and the heat of the NBA playoffs. So a tough-minded and desperate opponent on the road was a perfect situation for them to get some important work in.
The Raptors prevailed 99-95 in a delightful game, but that wasn’t really the point at this juncture of the season. It’s how they played through tough stretches against a physical team in a tough building — and they handled themselves well.
The Grizzlies are fifth in the West but, with a gruelling schedule left that includes two games with Golden State, they are not even sure of a post-season berth.