NBA Playoffs 2017: 5 keys to Raptors vs. Bucks matchup

Mar 4, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives for the basket against Toronto Raptors forward P.J. Tucker (2) in the fourth quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. The Bucks beat the Raptors 101-94. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports /

2 of 5

Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) and Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) are both good options in tonight’s FanDuel daily picks. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Toronto’s backcourt

In both talent and production, Toronto boasts one of the NBA’s top guard pairings. Kyle Lowry’s bowling-ball prowess as a floor general and DeMar DeRozan’s mid-range mastery make for a backcourt harking back to an earlier era. However, as the Raptors turned into a premier team in the East over the past couple seasons, Canada’s dynamic duo wilted with Spring’s rising temperatures.

For all of Lowry and DeRozan’s regular season splendor, the playoffs have seen them turn into pumpkin versions of themselves. In doing a comparison, their numbers sagged across the board, both in per game averages and efficiency.

Whether they get tight under pressure or defenses better gameplan around them in a series, Toronto can’t afford their stars dimming when it matters. If Toronto wants to overcome past disappointments and make a deep run, it all depends on Lowry and DeRozan. They’re the key to unlocking the door to the semi-finals.

Home/Milwaukee Bucks