3 Takeaways from Raptors vs. Pistons

The Toronto Raptors had the Detroit Pistons at home on Wednesday, marking the return of former long-time head coach and reigning COY, Dwane Casey. Not only that, but former fan favourite point guard, Jose Calderon, was in town with the Pistons as well.

The Raptors led by as much as 19, but failed to hold on to that, eventually losing on a game winner by Reggie Bullock.

1. It's Okay to be Happy for Dwane Casey Wins

Dwane Casey got his revenge on Masai Ujiri and the Raptors organization for firing him. In the end, it was probably of very little meaning in the grand scheme of things, but it was a big personal victory for Coach Casey, and there is nothing wrong with, as a Raptors fan, being happy for your franchise's winningest coach ever.

2. Blake Griffin did Blake Griffin Things

Blake Griffin had himself a night, which wasn't overly surprising given the season he's been having so far.

Griffin scored 30 points and grabbed 12 boards in 40 minutes of play, maintaining his reputation to this point in the season as the Pistons' top scorer.

He was a bully in the post, backing down whichever undersized forward that Nurse had put on him with relative ease, and also was able to knock down shots from behind the arc.

3. Greg Monroe Deserves More Playing Time

I don't want to say "I told you so" to Nick Nurse, but... well, I told him so. I've been saying in these takeaways that I do that Greg Monroe would be a force in the paint if he got even 10-15 minutes a game. Monroe recorded nearly a double-double, with 17 points and 9 boards in just 21 minutes on the court.

I understand the situation; Monroe is behind two very capable centers in Valanciunas and Ibaka, who are both performing incredibly well right now. However, I think given the skill set that Monroe brings to the table is worth Nick Nurse finding a way to carve out 10 or so minutes a game for him.