A team that lies second in their conference table takes on the team that is 14th in theirs. Fans just a year ago would have thought that the second placed team is the Toronto Raptors of the Eastern Conference and the 14th placed team is the Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference table.

Oh, how the fortunes have reversed. But that is exactly what we love about the NBA. A few trades, here and there; just a single offseason and free agency period can determine the future of a franchise. And that’s what happened here as well.

Phoenix Suns – Preview

After years of turmoil and lack of playoffs contention, the Suns finally took some action. One of the best free agency periods culminated in them bringing Chris Paul over to their side. Even though he is 35 and a burden on the salary cap, his leadership is invaluable to a team.

Thanks to him and in part Jae Crowder, the team ranks an unimaginable second in the conference with a 5-2 winning record.

Though they oversaw a small blip in the road with their previous game against the LA Clippers, the loss may just may motivate them more to grab a win at home against the struggling Raptors.

Predicted Starting 5 of the Phoenix Suns

Guard – Chris Paul

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Guard – Devin Booker

Center – DeAndre Ayton

Forward – Jae Crowder

Forward – Mikal Bridges

Toronto Raptors – Preview

This matchup truly mirrors a tale of contrasting offseasons. First, the Raptors lost experienced big men, Ibaka, and Gasol to the city of Los Angeles. Then, they have to play their ‘Home’ games away from home all the way in Tampa, Florida because of COVID restrictions.

To compound their miseries further, their star player Pascal Siakam is continuing his rotten run from the bubble. He is averaging 17.6 points a game at a poor 40% FG percentage.

Predicted Starting 5 of the Toronto Raptors

Guard – Kyle Lowry

Guard – Fred VanVleet

Center – Aron Baynes

Forward – Pascal Siakam

Forward – OG Anunoby

Prediction for Suns vs Raptors

It does not look too promising for the Raptors as the Suns look well-balanced out on the court. Considering their disappointing record, it is difficult to foresee them as the winners.

Having said that, one can never discount the heart of a champion. They still possess the winning mentality to turn it around. Whether this will be the match that ignites their desire to win, we will soon find out.