3 Takeaways from Raptors vs. Pelicans

The Raptors played the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday in what was a rather lopsided affair throughout the fourth quarter.

Toronto ended up losing 126-110, their first loss, both at home and with Kawhi Leonard in the lineup.

1. Pelicans are the Second Best Team in the West

The Pelicans had a great start to the season, with star power forward, Anthony Davis, looking like an MVP-candidate. Then they had a big losing streak. A win over a team like the Raptors restored fans' confidence in their team's ability to perform against good teams at a high level, even without Nikola Mirotic in the lineup.

2. The Raptors Shouldn't Be Worried

The Toronto Raptors are now 12-2. They have lost one game with Kawhi Leonard playing. They have easily handled bad teams, and competed at a high level with the good teams.

Despite the tough loss, they have no reason to be worried about their championship prospects.

3. Pascal Siakam is a Star

I know, I know. I've said this a lot in these little takeaways that I do. I don't care. I'll say it again: Pascal Siakam is good. He's really good.

In his first performance after winning Eastern Conference Player of the Week, a stretch in which he averaged career highs in points and rebounds, he scored 22 points in 28 minutes.

While his rebound numbers were down, (just three boards) expect them to bounce back in the games to come.