Charles Barkley predicts Raptors to defeat Warriors in NBA Finals

The Toronto Raptors are now presented with the Herculean task of unseating the two-time defending Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals, but have the confidence of one Hall of Famer.

Following Toronto’s 100-94 victory over Milwaukee, the ‘Inside the NBA’ crew teed up the upcoming matchup, and Charles Barkley gave the Raptors a ringing endorsement.

“To answer your question, I’m taking the Toronto Raptors,” Barkley proclaimed, citing the ability for Kawhi Leonard to get some rest before the Finals begin on Thursday.

In many ways, it’s a win-win situation for the Raptors, who either lift the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy for the first time, or lose to arguably the greatest team of all-time in the Warriors.

For what it’s worth, Shaquille O’Neal picked the Warriors, a safe bet to be sure, but it’s possible Kevin Durant could miss some time due to a calf strain sustained against the Houston Rockets on May 8, potentially evening the playing field.

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