Raptors Reasonablists: A show about the Toronto Raptors The Athletic

Blake and Eric check in ahead of the All-Star break and in the midst of the Raptors 15-game winning streak to discuss the team's play and the probability of the streak continuing. The guys discuss what's special about the current run and why Raptors fans should appreciate a regular season rarity, as well as how Nick Nurse has managed the minutes distribution over the course of it and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson's performance against the T-Wolves. Plus, Pascal Siakam showing signs of a return to form, possible buyout candidates, and much more.

Blake and Eric look back at the Raptors 11-game winning streak, Terence Davis' shocking snub from the Rising Stars game (5:19), and Kyle Lowry being named an All-Star reserve (24:50). With the trade deadline less than a week away, the guys discuss possible additions and the likelihood of the Raptors making a rotation-altering move (33:27), as well as the difficulty of matching salary in any trade with the current roster (42:17). Plus, Eric goes rapid fire on some potential trade targets, realistic or otherwise (43:57).

Blake and Eric look back at a tough week for the NBA with Kobe Bryant's passing and the impact he had across the league after an emotional game in San Antonio. Coming off an 8-game winning streak and a win over the Hawks, the guys discuss a stretch of games against bad competition, if Vince Carter is now the NBA's all-time leader in video tributes, as well as Kyle Lowry breaking Jose Calderon's franchise assist record. Plus, what to make of the amount of injuries with Marc Gasol and OG Anunoby joining the club, anticipating Chris Boucher's return to the lineup, and the Raptors chance of finishing 1st in the East before All-Star Weekend.

Blake is in NYC, so Eric enlists in the help of The Unreasonablist, Ryan Wolstat of the Toronto Sun, to co-host this week. Coming off the NBA All-Star Starters announcement, Eric and Woz discuss Pascal Siakam being named to his first All-Star Game and the unlikely journey that led him there, Kyle Lowry's All-Star case and the chances he's voted in as reserve, as well as what has been behind Siakam's struggles on the court since returning from injury. With the Trade Deadline less than two weeks away, the guys discuss trade possibilities for the Raptors and the likelihood of adding an impactful piece in spite of their salary cap situation. Plus, what's behind Norman Powell's inspired play off the bench, looking back at Andrew Wiggins most recent visit and if he'll suit up for Canada at the upcoming FIBA Olympic qualifiers in June.

Blake and Eric dissect a tough finish to the week for the Raptors, including what went wrong in a frustrating loss to the Spurs, Nick Nurse's questionable choice to favour Patrick McCaw over Terence Davis, and early signs from the offence with Pascal Siakam and Norman Powell back from injury. The guys take a closer look at Kyle Lowry's inspiring play for an undermanned Raptors team and his chances of making the All-Star Game, and give their thoughts on a special return to Toronto for DeMar DeRozan. Plus, a preview the week ahead for the Raptors, updates on Marc Gasol and Fred VanVleet, and much more.

Blake and Eric discuss the Raptors continuing to stay competitive in spite of injuries, including a 5-4 stretch since losing Pascal Siakam, Marc Gasol and Norm Powell. The guys break down one of the worst three-point shooting nights in NBA history against Miami and the Raptors struggle against the zone, as well as a much-needed bounce back performance against the Nets, led by Kyle Lowry and Fred VanVleet. Plus, looking at Serge Ibaka's play and the reliance on him in a shorthanded offense, OG Anunoby showing off playmaking abilities, Eric's thoughts on which injured Raptor could return soonest, and potential lineup changes with two unique tests against the Blazers and Hornets this week.