Toronto Raptors are primed for a hot start to NBA Cup action

Writer Elaine Blum argues that the Toronto Raptors are positioned for a strong start in the Emirates NBA Cup. Drawn into East Group A alongside the Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, and Brooklyn Nets, the Raptors open the tournament against Orlando on Friday. The preview highlights that Orlando remains short-handed without Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs following Toronto's recent 129-99 blowout victory over them.

Blum considers the 4-1 Detroit Pistons to be Toronto's primary threat to advance from the group stage to the knockout rounds. While the Raptors shot 50 percent from the field against Orlando, the analysis notes they must reduce turnovers after conceding 23 points off 15 giveaways.