The NBA season is set to kick off on October 21, and with it comes the tradition of 30 previews in 30 days. This time, we’re taking a closer look at the Toronto Raptors, examining their previous season, summer activities, and what lies ahead for the team as they seek to regain their competitive edge in the league.
A Look Back at Last Season
- Toronto Raptors’ 2024-25 Record
The Raptors finished last season with a disappointing record of 30 wins and 52 losses, placing them 11th in the Eastern Conference, which unfortunately kept them out of playoff contention. Despite some moments of hope, the team never truly looked like a contender. It was a season marked by losses that were hard to swallow, leaving Toronto in the middle of the NBA pack.
The Raptors made headlines by extending Jakob Poeltl’s contract and selecting Collin Murray-Boyles with the 9th pick in the draft. While the decision to re-sign Poeltl made sense, the choice to draft Murray-Boyles raised eyebrows, as the team appeared to need more shooting options rather than additional frontcourt players. So far, these have been the only significant moves, a stark contrast to the numerous rumors suggesting a more active offseason for the franchise.
The team parted ways with Masai Ujiri, the general manager credited with bringing the franchise its lone championship in 2019. His tenure has been characterized by several missteps that prevented the Raptors from maintaining their competitive edge. As it stands, the Raptors face several pressing needs, yet their trade market activity has been minimal. Although Brandon Ingram’s arrival has been seen as a positive development, it remains uncertain what impact he will have, as he has yet to take the court in his new colors.
Summer Moves and Challenges
- Departures: Masai Ujiri (GM)
- Re-signings: Jakob Poeltl
- Additions: Collin Murray-Boyles, Sandro Mamukelashvili
This summer was unusually quiet for the Raptors. Despite speculation about potential trades involving nearly every player apart from Scottie Barnes, actual moves were sparse. The Raptors were rumored to be in search of a new star, yet little has materialized.
The most notable departure was that of Masai Ujiri, who joined the franchise in 2013 and played a pivotal role in securing its only title. Critics argue that his failure to adapt and evolve left the team in dire need of revitalization. On a brighter note, the additions of rookie Collin Murray-Boyles and Sandro Mamukelashvili, who impressed in the Eurobasket, are expected to bolster the team’s frontcourt alongside the returning Jakob Poeltl.
Raptors’ Roster for the 2025-26 Season
- Point Guards: Immanuel Quickley, Jamal Shead
- Shooting Guards: RJ Barrett, Garrett Temple, Ja’Kobe Walter, AJ Lawson, Alijah Martin (two-way)
Brandon Ingram, Ochai Agbaji, Jamison Battle - Power Forwards: Scottie Barnes, Collin Murray-Boyles, Sandro Mamukelashvili
- Centers: Jakob Poeltl, Jonathan Mogbo, Olivier Sarr, Ulrich Chomche (two-way)
Bolded names indicate probable starters, according to sources close to the situation.
Unless significant trades occur, the starting lineup for the Raptors is likely to remain consistent. However, much depends on Brandon Ingram’s health, as he has yet to play a minute for his new team but is anticipated to claim a starting spot in Darko Rajakovic’s squad.
Should Ingram be unable to play, the starting small forward position may go to Gradey Dick, who showcased promising abilities last season but is still striving to prove himself as a reliable starter in the league. The frontcourt appears solid, with star player Scottie Barnes and re-signed Jakob Poeltl manning the forward and center positions, respectively.
In the backcourt, the former Knicks duo of Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett is set to lead, following their trade that sent OG Anunoby to New York. On paper, this lineup seems appealing, but concerns about spacing loom large.
What to Expect from the Raptors This Season
Will this be another season stuck in the middle of the Eastern Conference? There is a strong possibility that the Raptors are too good to be vying for the top draft spot yet not strong enough to make a legitimate playoff push.
With recent changes in the front office, there is a chance the new decision-makers could adopt a more aggressive strategy to enhance the roster and address current shortcomings. While the starting five seems promising, effective chemistry remains a concern as they look to complement each other’s play styles.
Rumors suggest the Raptors may explore the trade market to find a reliable shooter or impactful player to elevate the team. Apart from Scottie Barnes and possibly Brandon Ingram, no player appears untouchable, making it clear that the franchise is open to offers for almost any player in order to improve the team.
In the absence of significant enhancements, the Raptors’ season could turn out challenging. It could become disheartening for fans to experience a season without competitive stakes, even missing out on a coveted draft pick.
Predicted Record: 28 Wins – 54 Losses
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