It's way too early for a team to make any emphatic statements or anything like that but a little subtle message can be delivered any old time.

That's precisely what the Toronto Raptors did last night in a thorough and in-control dismantling of what's generally perceived to be the best team in the NBA's Eastern Conference.

Riding the substantial shoulders of Antonio Davis and the sublime offence of Vince Carter, the Raptors tore apart the New Jersey Nets 89-77 before a sold-out house at the Air Canada Centre.

The win gives Toronto five wins in its last six games, seven triumphs in the last 10 and keeps them within striking distance of the Central Division lead.