"Eleven days ago the Raptors headed to the west coast for the one and only time this season.

They left with an injured Andrea Bargnani in tow, and a burdensome seven-game losing streak on their shoulders.

They returned Monday to a rare and unexpected day off. Normally, they would have practised.

It's as good a sign as any that this team is making progress.

Dwane Casey doesn't give away practice days, especially this season, without good reason.

A 3-2 record on this road trip, combined with the toll it took on his team were reasons enough.

Consider Monday's off day part reward, part survival maintenance."