Raptors’ string snapped at five in playoff atmosphere in Boston

BOSTON—There really is an edge to the Raptors-Celtics dance that’s been going on for a couple of years now.

Not a hatred, yet, but a sense of healthy dislike tempered by a measure of respect and the rivalry — and the fans of both teams — should eventually deserve the intensity of a playoff series in the spring.

Until then, though, it’s four meetings in the run of a regular season and they always seem to be gritty and tough and close.