Today, the Toronto Raptors were supposed to host the Philadelphia 76ers at the Air Canada Centre to start the NBA season.
Uh, yeah, about that.
When/if the Toronto Raptors start playing (November 2012??), we will have a preview. A lockout really doesn't help franchises that are struggling. The Raptors haven't had much on-court success in its history. Obviously, the Raptors have lasted much longer than the other NBA Canadian franchise, the Vancouver Grizzlies.
Last season was particular brutal for Raptors fans. After losing Chris Bosh in the off-season, Toronto only had 22 wins in 2010-2011.
Even though basketball was invented by a Canadian, the modern NBA hasn't done well by Canada. Not allowing either Canadian franchise to have the #1 pick did countless damage to both teams.
No matter the result, the world of basketball won't make it easier for Toronto to do well. And the potential loss of basketball won't help to develop the sport in Canada's largest city.
The NBA lockout is helping the NHL thrive both in terms of attendance and TV exposure. We could get more Comcast simulcasts of NHL games to fill the time. Hockey games will be easier to find on local TV in basketball markets. Hopefully, the NHL will appreciate that opportunity.
TNT can carry the CFL Playoffs now that is has more time to fill in its schedule.
Posted by: Chad | November 02, 2011 at 09:32 AM