Game 54: Clippers @ Toronto Raptors. February 3rd, 2019
On the second night of their back to back, the Clippers will be visiting most likely a top two seed Eastern Conference team on short rest and tired legs. That alone says bad news for the Los Angeles Clippers, where as the Raptors will be on two days off, still in the midst of their home stand.
This seems clear who the winner should be due to rest factors, and no question the Toronto Raptors will be the favorite. Despite the difference in rest between these teams, there is more to it than just being rested. Plain and simple, the Raptors have a deeper roster all around, from the starters to their bench. However, it does occur often where the team resting can be rusty, while the team on a back to back can at times stay in rhythm and out hustle. However, this night will not be one of those times.
Prediction: Clippers unfortunately get thrashed trying to keep up with the up tempo Raptors. Defense will keep the Clips in the game at first, until they run out of gas and finish this back to back at 1-1.