Talking points in the wake of the Raptors' 92-85 win over the Orlando Magic last night:- No one ever said Sam Mitchell wasn't a master motivator; the beef with Smitch has always been with his adjustments and subbing patterns. Dwight Howard's lousy night was probably a tipping point, but winning with two regulars in suits (Jose Calderon and Anthony Parker), one spending most of the first half in his warmups (MoPete after getting two quick fouls) and another in a hospital should not be taken lightly.
Six games up with 14 left; the Raptors couldn't blow this lead unless they put Jimy Williams -- the manager of the '87 Jays -- in charge. (What, too soon?) - It's hard to resist pouring cold water all over the nights Chris Bosh (34 points, 16 boards in 45 minutes) and T.J. Ford (16 points, 12 dimes in 46) enjoyed. It's OK to lean on them to that extent for one night.
- Attendance for Orlando's visits to the ACC, both of which were Wednesday night games two days before a good Friday draw (the Lakers and the Nuggets with A.I. and 'Melo, respectively) came into town: 18,326 last night, compared to 15,157 six weeks ago. Warmer weather or people hedging their bets in case a certain other team happens to miss the playoffs?
- Talk about your all-time bad timing: The National Post ran a feature on Andrea Bargnani (pictured) which ran on the day he took ill and underwent an emergency appendectomy. That'll teach them to try to have a sports section. Also, does this mean the loss of Il Mago can be added to the case against Post founder Conrad Black?
- Cool Standings has busted the Raptors down to a projection of 44.5 wins, fewer than Southeast leaders Miami and Washington. That mean's it more than 50-50 they'll get Chicago in the first round.
That's all for now. Send your thoughts to neatesager@yahoo.ca.
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