The epiphany.

The 2006-2007 Toronto Raptors are the cast and crew in the animated movie (and series) “The Land Before Time.”

The proof is in the proverbial pudding. And by pudding I mean my distorted mind.

“The Land Before Time” concerns a young Apatosaurus named Littlefoot, who flees famine and upheaval to search for the Great Valley. During his journey, he encounters several friends. Through many trials and tribulations, the group eventually finds the Great Valley and they are very happy and all sorts of lessons are learned. The similarities are endless.

LITTLEFOOT = CHRIS BOSH

The leader and “heart” of the group, Littlefoot is a curious, bright and sensitive longneck dinosaur. He has a positive attitude, and encourages the rest of the group to work together. You may know him even better as a Brontosaurus – the thunder lizard. The earnest, honest, and enthusiastic Littlefoot is always leading his friends into new adventures, overcoming obstacles, and learning important lessons about friendship and teamwork.

DUCKY = T.J. FORD

A small, sweet dinosaur, Ducky is one of the most affectionate and caring dinosaurs of all. Sensitive to a fault, DUCKY is a loyal friend and companion who always thinks of others before the self. Most importantly, Ducky just loves to have fun.

SPIKE = RASHO NESTEROVIC

A big dinosaur with a big heart and an even bigger appetite. Spike may not say much, but he is always eager to lend a tail when one of his friends needs help. His spiked tail also makes him a great friend to have around when a nasty Sharptooth comes around, and there’s defending to be had.

RUBY = ANTHONY PARKER

Soft-spoken, sensitive and creative, Ruby is the philosopher of the group, though at times the philosophies are expressed in a unique way. A natural diplomat, Ruby can see both sides of an issue or problem. A very loyal friend and family member, Ruby’s sense of responsibility makes everyone willing to stand ground and be brave when needed.

CHOMPER = JOEY GRAHAM

Chomper is sweet and loving, but knows that as a sharptooth he poses a threat to everyone. His sharptooth instincts make him stand his ground and not back away from a fight. Chomper is a Tyrannosaurus Rex, the largest known meat-eating dinosaur. Chomper walks on two powerful legs and has a huge head.

PETRIE = ANDREA BARGNANI

Eager to please, but easily frightened, Petrie is likely to fly off in a panic at the drop of a leaf. Although he can fly, his skills are still developing and he is afraid to go too high since clouds make him nervous. He is a loyal friend, however, and will show his bravery once in a while, especially when Littlefoot and his other good friends are in trouble. He could grow to be so big that he measures 20 feet from wing tip to wing tip.

Suspend your disbelief, people!

(images and descriptions of the dinosaurs from “The Land Before Time” were taken from the official website for the dvd “The Land Before Time”)
(images of the Toronto Raptors are from editorial Getty Images)