New york knicks toronto raptors
A classic NBA rivalry!
The New York Knicks and the Toronto Raptors have a long history of competition, dating back to the 1990s. Here are some interesting facts about their rivalry:
- Eastern Conference foes: Both teams are part of the Eastern Conference, which means they've faced each other numerous times over the years.
- Playoff battles: The Knicks and Raptors have clashed in the playoffs several times, with the Raptors holding a 4-2 advantage in their postseason series.
- Vince Carter era: The Raptors' Vince Carter, a fan favorite, played for the team from 1998 to 2004 and had many memorable battles against the Knicks.
- Kawhi Leonard's dominance: In 2018, Kawhi Leonard led the Raptors to their first NBA championship, defeating the Golden State Warriors in six games. The Knicks were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs that year.
- Current rivalry: The rivalry has continued in recent years, with both teams competing for playoff spots in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks have struggled to find consistency, while the Raptors have become a consistent playoff contender.
- Notable games: Some notable games between the two teams include a 2013 playoff series that went to seven games, as well as a 2019 game where the Raptors came back from a 15-point deficit to win in overtime.
- Fan rivalry: The rivalry extends beyond the court, with Knicks and Raptors fans often engaging in friendly (and sometimes not-so-friendly) banter on social media and at games.
Overall, the Knicks-Raptors rivalry is a classic example of a heated NBA rivalry, with both teams having a strong following and a long history of competition.