Scottie Barnes didn’t record his first basket until 1:36 remained in the opening half and didn’t attempt his first free throw until 8:15 was left in the game.

And while those two moments reflected Toronto’s offensive inefficiency and passivity for most of Friday night’s game in Atlanta, the Raptors’ compete level and some halftime adjustments made them disappear in a comeback 109-97 victory over the Hawks.

This battle between two 1-0 NBA Cup teams had a playoff feel with the Raptors and Hawks fully aware the winner would be in the driver’s seat. Toronto’s remaining two NBA Cup opponents are Indiana and Washington, two winnable games.

In terms of competitive spirit, Friday night was the most intense game of the early season for the Raptors, who saved their best when the stakes were at th

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