Apr 19, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors fans display a banner during the game against the Brooklyn Nets in game one during the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. The Nets beat the Raptors 94-87. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

Stat Central: What Each NBA Title Contender Needs For Christmas

Stat Central: What Each NBA Title Contender Needs For Christmas by Mark Vandeusen

Before the family comes over, and the NBA’s quintuple-header monopolizes the television (while setting your PVR for the Griswold’s Christmas Vacation, of course); a little housekeeping is in order — feel free to begin serving the tasty beverages, as the kids are about to ransack the place.

“The new logo”:

Yes, the similarities to Brooklyn’s emblem are rather striking; but does that justify the overwhelming response of antagonism by the fans? …

It does incorporate a contemporary feel, and a stylish look; should a hint of its purple roots or a splash of its current representation been implemented? … Or, how about letting fans vote on a few choices? … After all, they’re the ones that truly care the most.

At this point, the Raptors’ brass could unveil a tweaked version when it’s all said and done, the brushback may have been too strong — when the logo’s full color concept takes shape, the naysayers might take back their resentment, realizing its potential.

Inconsequential to some, but this is an important issue. The vibe a team’s symbol gives off, acts as an extension of any city’s love for their franchise.

However, you know Toronto is in the midst of a scene from It’s A Wonderful Life when the squad’s badge of honor is the only outcry of negativity.

A time existed when even the name “Raptors” was treated with distaste. Not to mention, as Tracy McGrady put it :

” I also was here when I heard a bunch of crickets when we were playing in the Sky Dome.”

It just takes time for the appreciation to kick in.

Which leads us to the present day festivities. As Thanksgiving brings the sports world a feast full of pigskin, Christmas counters with an all-out hoops fiesta of its own.

It’s understandable — the average American family, or hardwood fanatic, doesn’t exactly have the Raps listed at the top of their viewing wish list; on the other hand, an arrival on holiday prime time is brewing in the background — Toronto is inching its way to league-wide acceptance with every standout performance.

Raps vs. Cavs, Christmas Day 2015? …

Critics would venture: What’s with the “Us against the world mentality, act like you’ve been there before” …

Well, last time I checked, the Vancouver Grizzlies are no longer in existence (a plug pulled too soon); this team represents an entire country — embracement of a movement should be the priority, overanalyzing the situation just plays the Scrooge card. But hey, even Ebenezer came to his senses.

With the Canadian spirit flowing, this calls for a little Vancouver love, along with an ode to their opponent; one who should be selling out Kevin Durant jersey’s on a nightly basis as we speak:

Back to matter at hand — the Raps haven’t been this relevant across the basketball spectrum since the days of their NBC debut; a momentous occasion, not only in Toronto’s history, but of the NBA’s past as well.

As much as the Vince Carter issue will forever hold a debate; it’s the holiday season — a time to reminisce, and celebrate:

It also represents a stage for this institution to count its current blessings:

Jonas Valanciunas growing a backbone, becoming the physical presence his reputation came attached with; alongside an added assertiveness on both ends of the floor — the pump-fake, two-dribble predictability is witnessing its extinction.

Home games where scalpers are even making a killing on the standing-room only section.

Louis Williams all but sewing up the sixth-man of the year award, 29 games in.

Kyle Lowry, the pace car of this organization, mounting his teammates on his back while DeMar DeRozan is on the shelf — Hey, NBA All-Star selection committee: If the fans don’t push him over the top, a chance to atone for last year’s sin is at your doorstep.

A GM who went against the grain by drafting a seemingly unknown, Bruno Caboclo; one who in short spurts has shown immense upside.

Managing to save face, after coughing up yet another sizeable lead against the Chicago Bulls on Monday night.

A bench full of starting caliber players who buy into the role they are asked to provide.

Speaking of the second unit; a tribute to James Johnson is now on the docket. But first, no JJ reference is complete without showcasing the nominee for this season’s nastiest demolition of the rim.

You know a posterization just took place when the guy who was just dismantled dishes out the elbows-high treatment next time down the court — The annihilation of Andre Drummond; in all its glory — every kid’s wall awaits the decoration:

It makes one wonder how the Raptors let Johnson slip through their fingers the first time around — insert the shame on Bryan Colangelo’s era, here.

It’s not all dependent on upper management, however ; it takes two to tango. A year ago, Johnson was attempting a career resurrection in a stint with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, the Houston Rockets D-League partner.

A rebirth has transpired, and the contributions are escalating. Whether playing the role of defensive stopper, limited minute stat-sheet stuffer, relentless board attacker, or loose ball diver — JJ has been a revelation.

The overlooked attributes of setting proper screens, soft touch tip-ins, executing a consistent pick and roll, while offering the perfect outlet pass to start the fast break, are just another day at the office; with underrated handles to boot.

A Raptors’ Christmas story is unfolding before our very eyes.

Now that the tone has been set for Saturday’s trip to Hollywood, in a West Coast clash vs. the Los Angeles Clippers — enough talk, let’s eat! …

May the battle for the last scoop of cranberry sauce be an enjoyable one.