Clippers beat Raptors 104-98

(photo credit: Toronto Raptors/Twitter)

After a lackluster effort against the Warriors Tuesday night, The Los Angeles Clippers got their first win in the preseason against the Toronto Raptors 104-98. The Clips held a double-digit lead throughout the contest until the 4th quarter when the Raptors bench went on a 19-0 run, cutting the lead to one with just under four minutes left.

Doc Rivers found surprising success with a starting lineup consisting of Chris Paul, Raymond Felton, Austin Rivers, Blake Griffin and Deandre Jordan. Paul doesn't seem to be slowing down since joining The Clips in 2011. He recorded 15 assists before halftime along with his pitbull mentality on the defensive end. The acquisition of Raymond Felton seems to be one of the more underrated free-agent signings of the Summer. He struggled last season in Dallas, but he seems to have gotten stronger and in far better shape during the off-season.

Blake Griffin led The Clippers with 26 points on 10-13 shooting, while Deandre Jordan chipped in with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Jordan also went 4-6 from behind the free-throw line. The Raptors were lead by Demar Derozan, who is fresh off of signing a $139 million contract. With Kyle Lowry's noticeable absence, Cory Joseph ran the point and finished with 13 points and and a single assist.

The Clippers play their next preseason game Oct. 10 against a revamped Utah Jazz team and The Raptors face the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers Oct. 13.