The Toronto Raptors began their 2026-27 NBA campaign with a 117-94 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 25. That result gives them a 2-1 record in their opening three games, following wins over the Washington Wizards and Chicago Bulls. The team now turns its focus to a home matchup against the Orlando Magic on October 28. This season arrives after a major offseason that saw the return of a franchise icon.
The Raptors' biggest move was trading for former Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard. He arrives from the Los Angeles Clippers in a deal that sent Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick the other way. Leonard is expected to solve major offensive issues. Toronto ranked 23rd in isolation scoring and 29th in pick-and-roll efficiency last year. Those are areas where Leonard still excels.
Scottie Barnes should benefit tremendously. Having a primary scorer like Kawhi will take pressure off Barnes to create every possession. He can focus more on his strengths as a cutter, screener, and versatile defender. The team also re-signed Chucky Hepburn on a two-way deal and brought in veteran forward Kyle Anderson on a one-year contract. Jakob Poeltl remains the starting center, a spot some analysts see as a potential weakness.
Toronto posted a 46-36 record in the 2025-26 season. That was good for fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Their playoff run ended in a tough first-round series. They pushed the Cleveland Cavaliers to seven games before being eliminated. The core of that team, led by Scottie Barnes, returns with added firepower.
Their preseason power ranking landed at No. 10 across the league. The combination of Barnes' all-around game and Leonard's shot-making gives them a high ceiling. But their success will depend on health and finding consistent production from the center position. The early season form shows promise, with a 135-92 blowout of the Chicago Bulls on October 21 and a 112-102 road win in Washington two days later.
The immediate task is to respond after the Minnesota loss. Hosting the Orlando Magic on October 28 provides that chance. It's the start of a critical early-season homestand.
Integrating Kawhi Leonard quickly is the top priority for head coach Darko Rajakovic. His ability to command double teams will open up the floor for shooters. It should also create easier scoring chances for Barnes in the paint. The win projection from analysts suggests this is a playoff team, likely in the 45-50 win range. Their performance against top teams like Minnesota will be a real measuring stick.
The roster has a mix of young talent and proven veterans. Jaden Bradley, drafted 50th adds backcourt depth. How the rotation settles, especially behind Poeltl, will be something to watch. The Raptors have the star power to make noise in the East. Their 2-1 start, despite the opening night stumble, shows they're ready to compete.
