The practice facility is a quiet place. Blake Murphy reports that Jak practiced, which is good because we need someone tall near the basket. Collin Murray-Boyles did not practice, although people are saying different things about whether he will play.
Confusion is a natural state for this team. Michael Grange and Eric Koreen think Collin is out, but the injury report says questionable. It is like when you see a sign that says a store is open, but the lights are off and the door is locked (it happens more than you would think).
The People We Keep Around
We have had AJ Lawson for a while now. He is getting older, which is something we are all doing, unfortunately. His game is fine, but some people think he could try harder on defense.
I am not sure what the plan is for AJ. Sometimes you just keep things because you are used to seeing them in the drawer. He is like that one specific screwdriver you never use but would feel weird about throwing away.
Moving Across the Border
Someone is coming from Buffalo for their first game. They said it will be the best day of their life in a long while. I hope the traffic on the Gardiner does not ruin that sentiment for them.
If you are coming from Buffalo, remember that Toronto is just like Buffalo, but with more glass buildings and different snacks. Park the car, walk a bit, and maybe do not look directly at the ticket prices. It is better for your spirit that way.
Looking at Scottie and the Past
A fan suggested we need to let go of our biases regarding Scottie Barnes. I am not sure which biases they mean. Loving a player is a bit like loving a pet that sometimes eats your shoes; you know they could do better, but you are already committed to the relationship.
People are also posting "gems" from three years ago. Three years is a long time in basketball. Players leave, jersey designs change, and we all just sit here wondering if the next practice report will finally make sense. Regardless, we will be there on Wednesday, watching the tall people run around.