The Toronto Raptors are in the midst of an impressive 14-game winning streak, one that has them seated in second place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 39-14. Many dismissed this team once Kawhi Leonard left for Los Angeles in the offseason, but this team has risen to the occasion this season so far.

The emergence of Pascal Siakam and Fred VanVleet has been crucial to their success thus far, and they will need to be key components alongside Kyle Lowry and Serge Ibaka if this is to be another special season in Canada. Paul believes their experience from last season has played a huge part in their success this season, even though they lost Leonard.

“These are the defending champs,” Pierce said. “They’ve been together…they’ve got veterans in that locker room.”