MILWAUKEE—The collapse started early, and happened fast. The Toronto Raptors knew they had to get their non-stars going, get them comfortable against a Milwaukee team that will pull down the ceiling if you let it. The ball worked its way to Marc Gasol at the rim. The 34-year-old seven-footer went to dunk it.
Giannis Antetokounmpo came swooping in like a sky-filling bird of prey, and swatted it away. Gasol got another shot, an open three; no. Tried a hook; no. Brook Lopez blocked the next one, and the Raptors were already down 9-0. Gasol hit his fifth shot, a jumper in the lane, and took it with confidence.