It wasn’t a test for the Raptors, not really. Even with the familiar C-A-V-S block letters on the opposing jerseys, this obviously is not the same Cleveland team. Still, as a symbol, as a changing of the guard, as a burning effigy even, the Raptors’ opening night 116-104 victory over the LeBron-less Cavaliers was satisfying. It wasn’t always pretty, but it did indeed feel like the start of something brand new.
If there was a test to be taken by the Raptors on Wednesday night, it was administered by the team itself.