Game two of the Raptors’ preseason wasn’t nearly as reinvigorating and promise-laden as Sunday night’s win in Honolulu. In the team’s second island-bound matchup against the Clippers, many of the encouraging signs flashed in the opener were dimmed.
Those who stayed up for the 1 AM tip-off were treated to the news that Kyle Lowry (rest) and Norman Powell (right ankle strain) were going to sit. For the team’s purposes, these were smart, precautionary moves ahead of a meaningless exhibition game. Those watching however, were subsequently treated to a sloppy Toronto outing with two of the team’s three best creators out of the lineup.