NBA Playoffs 2017: 5 things we learned from Toronto beating Milwaukee

Apr 22, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Michael Beasley (9) defends Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) during the fourth quarter in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 15, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) and Toronto Raptors forward Patrick Patterson (54) during the second half at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 121-117. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Here we go…

Toronto’s reward for knocking off Milwaukee is a second-round date with the defending champion, Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron James & Co. sent the Raptors packing for the summer last year, so they’ll have the extra incentive of avenging 2016’s downfall.

Much has been made about the vulnerability of this iteration of the Cavaliers and their 22nd-ranked defense. Meanwhile, the advanced numbers paint a much prettier picture for the Raptors. Cleveland will try and flip the switch under the bright lights of the playoffs. Toronto will need to continue its lineup tinkering to find the right recipe for success.

It’s going to be a hard-fought series, with one side defending their championship honor, and the other trying to conquer a history of shortcomings. The winner will be primed to take the East’s crown.

Next: Every NBA team's greatest playoff moment

Game 1 tips off Monday, May 1 at 7 p.m. EST. FanSided will keep you updated with continuing coverage of this series and the entirety of the 2017 NBA Playoffs.

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