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TSN Basketball Analyst

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I had fun Tuesday night hanging out at home on the couch watching the World Series and the three basketball games. We get it going tonight on TSN with the Raptors’ home opener against the Pistons. A few quick NBA thoughts ahead of the game:

1. Golden State Warriors: Coach Steve Kerr will have their attention after last night’s loss, which is a good thing. It’s time for this group to get down to business and tighten the screws. I'm very confident they will figure it all out. Two things jumped out at me from their blowout loss to Spurs. Their team defence was lazy and totally out of sync, which is unusual for them. The Spurs torched tem for 129 points and 48 per cent shooting. That’s totally unacceptable. Their bench was also shaky, only managing to score 16 points. The addition of Kevin Durant gives them a top-heavy roster, which is a good problem to have. Kerr needs to figure out how to develop the chemistry and productivity of this group and define roles. It will happen. Sometimes getting your tail kicked is a good thing. I think a night like last night will serve as a good wake-up call.

2. Kawhi Leonard (Spurs): With the retirement of Tim Duncan, the Spurs are his team now. He was impressive against the Warriors, finishing with a career-high 35 points, five rebounds, five steals and was a perfect 15-of-15 from the free-throw line. He was locked in and all business on both sides of the ball. Your best guys need to be at their best when you're on the road. Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge were excellent.                    

3. Cleveland Cavaliers: What a joy to watch them play against the Knicks on opening night. The Cavs had 31 assists on 45 field goals. That's how you share the rock and play like a team. LeBron James had 14 of those dimes. He sets the tone and makes the pass a cool way to play and win. The defending champs were mighty impressive; making the ball was hum with a purpose.            

4. Joe Johnson (Jazz): The man can still go. The veteran was excellent on the road in his debut for Utah with 29 points, four rebounds and three assists. I’m not sure at this point in his career if he can do it every night, but he's a good addition to the Jazz. Johnson is a legit guy teams have to prepare to guard, which opens up easier shots for his younger teammates.               

5. Damian Lillard (Blazers): I love this guy. He brings it every single night. His handle is tight, he’s explosive and his shooting range is impressive. His confidence is sky high and that comes from all the work he puts in. Lillard plays like a man on a mission. He went off for 39 points, nine rebounds and six assists on opening night. You can win a lot of games with excellent guard play (just ask Raptors fans). His partnership in Portland with C.J. McCollum is lethal. Coach Terry Stotts is a lucky man to have this duo.