Bucks vs. Raptors Game 3 Preview with Raptors HQ

Toronto had another crushing defeat, this time in the form of a blowout loss for Game two. The Bucks are in the driver’s seat, but is it time to declare the series over? We once again talk to Dylan Litman to get his viewpoints going into Game three.

The Bucks have started both games at a faster pace. Do you think Toronto has been ready for it?

In the first game, I attributed the Raptors’ lethargy in the second half to having just come out of a seven-game, hard fought series. However, after witnessing Toronto’s dispassionate display in Game 2, I’m not so sure the 76ers series had much to do with it. In the first game, sure. But last game, the Raptors looked like a disheartened group of individuals struggling to keep up with a talented, quick-release team. I expect them to control the pace better at home, where they’ll likely be more comfortable.

Do you think there will be any rotation adjustments?

Marc Gasol basically played himself out of last game, struggling to do much of anything with the basketball. He wasn’t successful facilitating the offense, fumbled the ball on multiple occasions and hesitantly bricked most of his jumpers. I expect to see some more Ibaka moving forward, for better or for worse. Norman Powell is also likely to see some minutes over Danny Green, who can’t keep up with the tenacity of the Bucks’ defenders.

How much of a must win is game 3?

I mean, I don’t believe the Raptors are going to win 4 out of the next 5 games anyway. But, if they were going to win a game, Sunday would be the best time to do it. The sooner they can find an offensive rhythm and a rotation that works, the better. Of course, when two teams are supposedly evenly matched like this, the home team is expected to win their games. If the Raptors go down 3-0 at home, I’d give them essentially no chance to come back in the series. Right now, the situation isn’t quite so dire, but a Game 3 loss would be the official nail in the coffin.

Thanks again to Dylan for answering our questions. For Toronto’s coverage, make sure to check out Raptors HQ and see what they got!