Wednesday marks a crucial contest for the Toronto Raptors. After knotting the Eastern Conference final with a pair of wins on home court against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto must now try to find success in enemy territory when they tip off at 8:30 p.m. ET at Quicken Loans Arena.
The Raptors have lost their last four games in Cleveland dating back to December of last season. They were categorically dismantled in the first two games of the series there, going up against an opponent that went 33-8 at home in the regular season and a perfect 6-0 so far in the postseason.
We asked, you told us
Can the #Raptors take Game 5 from the Cavaliers in Cleveland? #RTZ #NBAPlayoffs #RAPSvsCAVS
— Globe Sports (@Globe_Sports) May 24, 2016
Valanciunas return?
Jonas Valanciunas, who's been dealing with an ankle injury since the second round, could return to the court tonight. Valanciunas was dressed and on the bench in Game 4, but he did not see any court time. According to TSN, JV says he's ready to go:
His absence has been offset by the phenomenal play of Bismack Biyombo, who's become a folk hero in Toronto because of his playoff performances.
Mutombo-Biyombo finger wag
You no doubt recognize Biyomobo's hand gesture, which he usually displays after denying an opposing attack toward the rim. Biyombo's finger wag is a recycled celebration from his elder big man and fellow countryman Dikembe Mutombo, who popularized the the move during his 18-year NBA career.
There was some confusion, even a faux controversy, this week about whether or not Biyombo sought permission from Mutombo to use it. But Mutombo ultimately said his "brother" can use the sign if he wants.
Getting the calls
As Rachel Brady reported yesterday, Raptors fans have been up in arms this series about a perceived officiating bias against Toronto. It reached a head in Game 4, when the crowd rose to its feet to give the officials a standing ovation after they called the first personal foul against the Cavaliers midway through the second quarter.
What the fans are saying
Saint Alfred School getting creative:
St. Alfred showing their support! LET'S GO RAPTORS! #wethenorth pic.twitter.com/Fwk9P9DxXN
— Ms. DeFrancesco (@MsDefrancesco) May 25, 2016
Some are making the road trip
And we're off to Cleveland! #Roadtrip #WeTheNorth #Raptors #ALLin #NBAplayoffs pic.twitter.com/9Coj3lZcc1
— Paulo Senra (@paulosenra) May 25, 2016
Others are baking:
#wethenorth pic.twitter.com/EoptgUUpz4
— Sugar City Cupcakes (@SugarCityCakes) May 25, 2016