An underrated part of any new NBA season is simple: we can throw the results of the previous year straight into the trash bin of history. The 2017-18 Toronto Raptors got swept out of the playoffs for the second time in a row? Who cares! These are the 2018-19 Raptors, and they are a whole different story.
Before I wind myself up, please note, this is but one of 30 team previews coming out this week as part of SB Nation’s start to the NBA season. Though I think you’ll agree: this is the one that counts.