Toronto Raptors: Don’t write off Kyle Lowry despite rough Game 1 performance

The Orlando Magic stunned the Toronto Raptors to take Game 1 with  Lowry’s poor performance a big part of the problem but there’s still time for him to bounce back.

The Toronto Raptors might have just given the Orlando Magic some belief after losing Game 1 with D.J. Augustin playing the hero with a late three.

Kawhi Leonard and Pascal Siakam were the best players on the court for the Raptors and let’s just say Kyle Lowry left a lot to be desired with his performance. The point guard when 0-for-7 from the field while adding eight assists and seven rebounds.

It is tough to find an excuse for Lowry’s offensive struggles and even though he found ways to contribute in other areas but he also made life way too easy on the Magic.

"“I think he had some really good locks, that he would normally knock down,” said coach Nick Nurse. “I thought he was a positive factor in the game which is why we went with him. I’m sure he will bounce back and play a little better next game.”"

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Obviously, Lowry is being made into the scapegoat for the way Game 1 went and while he deserves some of the blame, he shouldn’t take all of it. The Raptors had their chances to win the game with Marc Gasol missing an open three-pointer with around 30 seconds left. Would it have been great for Lowry to be an option? Of course but there were other players capable of taking the shot in that situation.

Let’s not forget the Raptors had the lead late in the game but couldn’t shut down the Magic who aren’t exactly a highly touted offensive team. Fred VanVleet can help provide support but we’ve seen time and time again this season how crucial Lowry is to the Raptors’ success.

Even if he isn’t getting his shot from beyond the arc to drop, Lowry has shown a willingness to drive the lane and get points that way. He just needs to be confident in his ability to do so.

It also doesn’t help that Lowry was getting a beating on social media but if there is a player you shouldn’t write off, it’s him.