vs Toronto Raptors (30-43) vs Golden State Warriors (32-41) Wednesday March 31, 2004 7:30 p.m. EST Venue: Air Canada Centre Probable Starters PG: Jalen Rose (TOR)/Mike Dunleavy (GSW) SG: Morris Peterson (TOR)/Jason Richardson (GSW) SF: Vince Carter (TOR)/Mikael Pietrus (GSW) PF: Donyell Marshall (TOR)/Clifford Robinson (GSW) C: Chris Bosh (TOR)/Erick Dampier (GSW) Coaches Kevin O'neill (TOR)/Eric Musselman (ATL) Keys to the Game From a Raptors perspective <ul> [*]Limit turnovers: The Raptors need to be smart with the ball and try to limit turnovers to limit their fast break chances. Limiting fast break points has been a key for a long time, mainly because the Raptors continue to lose games with either a lot of turnovers or too many fast break points given up. They can't win playing careless basketball. [*]Don't Rely on Long Jumpshots: Donyell Marshall and Chris Bosh need to get a lot touches for some high percentage shots, and more consistent scoring. Live by the three, die by the three, in this case the long two, inconsistent scoring has put the Raptors into a hole as of late. There have been many times when the Raptors have constantly forced up jump shots, causing them to shoot a lower percentage a lose the game because of it, this has been a key for a long time, mainly because its been a huge problem - most recently last game against Cleveland. [*]Contain Eric Dampier: The Raptors post players need to do a good job covering Eric Dampier in the low block and boxing out while rebounding. He can easily put some points on the board, and can do an even better job rebounding. If the Raptors want to win this game they need to limit the Warriors chances on the glass, and it starts with this man. [/list] <font color="red">thefranchise3's Prediction:</font> The Raptors are even farther behind in the playoff hunt so this is a crucial game. Considering it's at home and the effort we've seen in the past games, despite the losses, I think they can win this one. Raptors by 3.
Well we lost, and our playoff hopes are basically dead, even though I felt it was kinda outta reach a short while ago. We have Indiana and Detroit twice, and unlike the season where we got into the playoffs, we don't have an easy schedule.
