The Toronto Raptors tipped off their 2026 preseason schedule on October 3 with a 105-129 loss to the Miami Heat, a game that featured the NBA debuts of rookies Jaden Bradley and Nimari Burnett. This contest marked the start of a busy preseason slate for a Raptors team that has since found its rhythm, most recently posting a dominant 148-98 preseason victory over the New York Knicks on October 13.
The Raptors' first preseason game was a high-profile affair, featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo's debut for the Miami Heat. Kawhi Leonard, who returned to Toronto in a major offseason move, did not suit up for the game. The spotlight, however, also fell on the team's new faces. Second-round draft pick Jaden Bradley, selected 52nd logged nine points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal. He shot an efficient 3-of-4 from the field and made his only three-point attempt.
Undrafted free agent Nimari Burnett also saw action, contributing six points, three rebounds and three assists. His shooting line was less efficient at 2-of-10 from the field, including 1-of-8 from three-point range. First-round selection Allen Graves, the former Santa Clara standout, did not play in the opener. The Raptors' preseason results have been a mixed bag, with a 114-106 win over the LA Clippers on October 10 preceding the big win over the Knicks.
Preseason games are about evaluation and development, not wins and losses. For the Raptors, getting early looks at Bradley and Burnett provides valuable data. Bradley's efficient scoring and all-around stat line in limited minutes is a positive sign for a late second-round pick. His ability to contribute immediately, even in a small sample, could earn him rotation consideration.
Burnett's performance, while less efficient, showed he's not afraid to shoot and can create for others with three assists. Preseason is the time for players to work through those shooting slumps. The fact that both players were on the court for their NBA debuts indicates the coaching staff wants to assess them thoroughly. These games help determine who can handle the speed and physicality of the NBA before the real games begin.
The Raptors' preseason schedule continues with a quick rematch against the New York Knicks, this time on the road on October 15. Fans can track the team's upcoming games on our schedule page. The focus will remain on player development and system implementation.
Coaches will be watching how Bradley and Burnett respond after their first taste of action. Will Bradley maintain his efficiency with more minutes? Can Burnett find a better shooting rhythm? The performance of the rookies, alongside the established veterans, will shape the final roster decisions and rotation plans. Every minute counts as the team prepares for the grind of the 2026-27 NBA regular season.
