Raptors recap... Game #1

An interesting way to start the season last night, losing 99-96 to the Washington Wizards. It looked like they were going to pull it out, but the last five minutes were an absolute joke (choke!)... they had opportunities galore... wide open shots on at least eight or nine occassions that would have given them the lead, or tied the game up. but Jalen Rose, Matt Bonner, Mike James and Charlie Villaneuva missed them all... turnovers were crippling in the pivotal moments. On the plus side, the rookies did well at times, all showing flashes of brilliance. Jose Calderon was the catalyst in the 2nd quarter, but looked lost in the 4th. Joey Graham started the Raps going with 5 points in the first couple minutes, but finished with only 7. Charlie looked the best of the bunch from an offensive standpoint, but was completely lost on defence. I hope the Raps management noticed all the empty seats yesterday, and try to do something about it. Having said that, last night's game was entertaining, and for 40 minutes of the game, it looked like the Raptors might actually have it right. Bosh looked lost at the beginning of the game, but was their rock at the end... the only one making buckets. Not sure why Mitchell had him sitting on the last posession. That made no sense to me. Nor why Loren Woods only played 12 minutes, when he had such a strong start to the game with 9 boards. Here's hoping they improve for tomorrow's game, when Vince comes back to town...