Event of the Day: Toronto Raptors versus Milwaukee Bucks
Our event of the day is the NBA fixture between the Toronto Raptors and the Milwaukee Bucks at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. The teams are placed 1st and 2nd in the Eastern Conference, with Toronto holding a 3-and-a-half game lead over the Bucks. Both teams boast young stars supported by experienced veterans and are eager to fill the void in the East left by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Bucks won the first match between the two sides earlier in the season but with the Raptors having raced away since then, it is anyone’s game tonight. Be sure you don’t miss this exciting Eastern Conference clash. The Raptors have pulled away from the pack in what was predicted to be a highly competitive Eastern Conference. They sit at 21-6, 3.5 games ahead of second place Milwaukee. After an early exit from the 2017-18 playoffs, the Raptors made major changes to their organisation. They fired head coach Dwane Casey and made a blockbuster trade with the San Antonio Spurs to acquire two-time all star Kawhi Leonard. Leonard has been a vital piece of the Raptors this year, averaging 26.1 points and 8.6 rebounds a game.
While Leonard is the team’s star and leader, the Raptors have built a talented team around him as they look towards a deep playoff run. Serge Ibaka is a solid center who excels from the field. Kyle Lowry is a seasoned veteran who has the team’s lead in assists. Lowry recorded a career-best streak of nine consecutive games with ten or more assists earlier in the season. The Raptors have built a strong team, and this could definitely be their year. Meanwhile, the Bucks are the Raptors’ closest rivals. 2nd in the Eastern Conference with a record of 16-8, the Bucks have bounced back from a first round playoff exit last season. They have distinguished themselves in the East, recording their best start to the season since 1990 while holding off teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Indiana Pacers, who are also enjoying successful seasons. The Bucks have built a solid core around Giannis Antetokounmpo, Eric Bledsoe and Khris Middleton. However, with the Raptors pulling away at the top of the table, only time will tell as to whether the Bucks can maintain their pace and maintain a top playoff seeding come April. A matchup between 1st and 2nd place, with two talented teams eager to win, is sure to be an exciting game you won’t want to miss.
Honourable mentions around the globe go to the European Rugby Champions Cup. Saracens host the Cardiff Blues at Allianz Park. Saracens are undefeated in the competition and lead Pool 3. However, they come into the match against Cardiff without lock Maro Itoje, who is likely to miss the remainder of the group stages due to injury. However, prop Mako Vunipola returns from an injury of his own. Cardiff desperately need the win to stay competitive in the pool. These are two talented teams with their sights set on victory and will meet in what will be a fiercely contested match. Elsewhere, in the NHL, the Edmonton Oilers host the Calgary Flames at Rogers Place. In the Eredivisie, Emmen face Feyenoord at De Oude Meerdijk. In the NFL, the Chicago Bears host the Los Angeles Rams at Soldier Field. The 1st Test between Australia and India continues at the Adelaide Oval.
Whatever you’re watching, enjoy!
Photos by NBA