The narrative unfortunately continues for the Toronto Raptors: another year, another disappointing finish. As a result of a third straight series loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in which the Raptors have lost 12 of the 14 playoff games, it could be time to make a major change.
To no one's surprise, head coach Dwane Casey has taken the brunt of the blame for their sweep from the playoffs at the hands of the Cavs. But point guard Kyle Lowry, who had himself a decent series, came to his coach's defense when the suggestion that he should be relieved of his duties was brought up. Per Ryan Wolstat of the Toronto Sun:
“We've had our trials and tribulations … he's helped me become who I am. I always believe in him. I believe he's one of the best coaches I've had.”
Of all the painful losses the Raptors have suffered in the playoffs, this one undoubtedly stings the most. There was plenty of optimism that Toronto would finally be able to get the job done after they managed to finish as the East's first seed with a franchise record 59 wins. The level of dominance they had reached in the regular was unlike anything the team had enjoyed in previous years, but the result was ultimately the same after Cleveland managed to end their playoff run for the third consecutive season.
That said, Casey has taken plenty of flak for Toronto's shortcomings over the last several years and could reportedly be on his way out. Lowry's defense of his coach should come as no surprise. Both he and shooting guard DeMar DeRozan were adamant about not repeating the same failures they endured in the past. Unfortunately, neither were able to prevent the inevitable in the postseason, which could result in some major changes in the near future.
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