体坛英语新闻：Raptors wrap up season with franchise-record 49th win

TORONTO, April 15 (Xinhua) - Toronto Raptors defeated Charlotte Hornets 92-87 on Wednesday night to finish their regular season with a franchise-best 49-33 record on the season.

Toronto's previous record of 48 wins was set last season in Dwane Casey's third full season as head coach.

Since taking over the role in 2011, Casey has improved the win total of the team in each year. Toronto had a 23-43 record in his first season and improved to 34-48 the following season before reaching 48 and 49 wins respectively.

"It means a lot, every year is part of the growing process," said Casey following the game. "Two division titles in two years is important for this organization."

Despite winning consecutive Atlantic division titles and setting franchise records, Casey believes the real test of a team's ability is the playoffs, which begins in three days.

"The real season starts this weekend and that's what we have been building for," said Casey. "We should be (ready) and we have no choice."

Casey is looking to take his squad into unfamiliar territory by winning a playoff series. Toronto has reached the postseason in six seasons with only one series win to show for.

Toronto's lone playoff series win was against New York Knicks in 2001 before falling to the Philadelphia Sixers in the Conference semi-finals.

Casey hopes that his extensive playoff experience as an assistant coach will help take the team to the next level.

Prior to taking over as head coach, Casey worked as assistant coach for fourteen seasons that included eleven playoff appearances and two NBA championships.

"I've seen it happen over the years and have been a part of different organizations that have won and we are getting to that level," said Casey. "We are not there yet but we are getting there and this year is another step."

After a first round exit to Brooklyn Nets last year, Casey and his squad will look to at least reach the second round.

Toronto's path to the second round begins on April 18 when they play host to the fifth seed Washington Wizards.