Blue-collar defense is likely to be appreciated in Toronto more than in a lot of other NBA cities, based on the constructive influence of the Maple Leafs and the NHL in general.

"I call it the hockey mentality, because I know that's what the fans want to see," Raptors coach Dwane Casey said. "It's that type of physical play where you legally put your hands on people and be physical, body people when they cut through the paint. Those are things we're teaching -- how to do it legally without being called for fouls, and protecting the paint."