The Toronto Raptors wrapped up their 2026 preseason schedule with a 122-120 loss to the New York Knicks on October 15. The close result followed a dominant 148-98 win over the same opponent just two days prior. With the exhibition slate over, focus shifts to rookies Allen Graves and Jamal Carter as they prepare for their first NBA campaign.
Allen Graves, the forward from Santa Clara, was a major riser in the draft process. The Raptors selected him for his defensive instincts and offensive potential. At six-foot-nine, his length and basketball IQ make him a disruptive force. He excels in passing lanes and shows surprising rim protection skills for a wing.
His main task is proving his athleticism translates to the NBA level. Scouts love his feel for the game, but they want to see that same intelligence paired with NBA-ready speed and verticality. If he can keep up physically, his two-way upside is significant. Graves could earn rotation minutes by being a reliable defender who doesn't make mistakes.
The six-foot-four guard from Kentucky is known as an explosive athlete. He's a highlight-reel dunker in transition and can put pressure on the rim. His defensive potential is tied to that raw athleticism, giving him the tools to be a pesky on-ball defender.
But his shooting is a clear work in progress. Carter must show he can be a reliable threat from the perimeter. If defenders don't respect his jump shot, it clogs the floor for drivers like Scottie Barnes. Improving his three-point percentage is the single biggest key to unlocking his NBA role. The Raptors will likely bring him along slowly, focusing on that development.
The Raptors' preseason gave glimpses of the team's potential and its inconsistencies. After a tough 105-129 loss to Miami on October 3, they bounced back with a 114-106 win over the LA Clippers. The wild swing against New York-a 50-point win followed by a narrow loss-highlights a team still finding its rhythm. These games were valuable live reps for the rookies to adjust to NBA pace.
You can review the full preseason results and upcoming schedule on our schedule page.
The real work begins now. The Raptors open their regular season on the road against the Detroit Pistons on October 16. It’s the first chance to see how head coach Darko Rajakovic plans to integrate the new pieces. Graves and Carter will be fighting for minutes in a competitive rotation. Their development this season is a big part of the franchise's future. Every practice and every minute on the floor is an audition for a larger role. The organization believes both players fit their vision, and this year is about turning that belief into production.
