The Toronto Raptors lost to Boston in the 2020 bubble playoffs on September 11, 4-3. Game 7’s 92-87 defeat in the East semis ended their title defense. Kyle Lowry’s 33 points weren’t enough against Tatum’s 29. The Disney bubble had no fans, just echoes. Pascal Siakam’s struggles sealed their fate. The champs bowed out early.
The series was a war, with three games decided by three points. OG Anunoby’s Game 3 buzzer-beater forced a long fight. Boston’s youth, led by Tatum and Brown, edged Toronto’s vets. Lowry’s grit shone, but Siakam shot 4-for-16 in Game 7. Nick Nurse’s tactics couldn’t crack the Celtics. The Raptors’ reign paused.
The bubble followed a 53-19 season, second in the East. No Kawhi hurt, but depth had kept them elite. Boston’s sweep of Philly set up the clash. The lack of home court leveled it, testing focus. Toronto’s 2019 magic faded in isolation. Fans missed the Jurassic roar.
Post-loss, Toronto eyed a 2021 reset, Siakam under fire. Boston marched to the East finals, falling to Miami. The 2020 exit stung after the prior glory. Lowry’s future loomed, a trade later. The bubble run was valiant but short. The Raptors reloaded for more.
