Toronto Raptors: 3 Keys to Beating the Nuggets

As the Toronto Raptors prepare to take on the Denver Nuggets, we look at three factors which could decide the outcome in Colorado.

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Usually, a road trip out West would present some concerns for the Toronto Raptors. However, these are heady times for Dwane Casey’s men, who are currently riding a franchise-record 11 consecutive victories.

This doesn’t mean the Raptors will breeze through the three games against the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers. However, confidence is at the point where they would be disappointed not to go at least 2-1.

This will be the second game between the Raptors and Nuggets this season, with Denver winning the first encounter at the Air Canada Centre. We look at three keys which will help determine if Toronto can gain some measure of revenge.

1) Dealing with the unique home field advantage

Denver has historically been a difficult place for opposing teams to contend with. When you’re not used to it, playing at high altitude can have a significant impact on you, often leading to headaches and feeling like you’re hungover.

Fortunately for the Raptors, they are playing the Nuggets at a time when the team is performing poorly. They currently find themselves 12th in the Western Conference, and have struggled at home this season, going 9-15 at the Pepsi Center.

Of course, this doesn’t mean Toronto will have it easy in Colorado. However, with Kyle Lowry and company playing well on their travels this season, there may never be a better time to face the Nuggets.

2) Danilo Gallinari

Regardless of the Nuggets issues, they still have some talent. One player who will cause problems for the Raptors is Kenneth Faried, who averages 12.3 points and nine boards per game.

Dec 3, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Denver Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari (8) looks to play a ball as Toronto Raptors forward Patrick Patterson (54) defends during the third quarter in a game at Air Canada Centre. The Denver Nuggets won 106 – 105. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

However, Toronto will really want to keep their eyes on Danilo Gallinari. The 2008 sixth overall draft pick presents a myriad of issues for whoever guards him (likely James Johnson).

The Italian is having a career year with 19.5 points per game this season (averaging 23 in his last seven), while also being good for five rebounds per contest. Control Gallinari, and the Raptors will be in good shape.

3) Just play your game

Understandably, this is sometimes easier said than done – everyone has off nights. Regardless, Toronto is on fire right now, especially with the backcourt combo of Lowry and DeMar DeRozan.

Interestingly, it is the defensive end of the court where the real difference between the two sides stands out. The Raptors are allowing the fourth-fewest points in the NBA, while the Nuggets are 23rd, giving up an average of 104.3 points per contest.

The one-point loss from earlier in the season will serve as a reminder of what can happen. However, as long as the Raptors play to their capabilities, they should get their three-game road trip off to a winning start.

Next: Why Raptors fans should appreciate the winning streak

What do you expect from the Raptors against the Nuggets? Let us know in the comments section below.

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