The Toronto Raptors found their identity on the defensive end this season, utilizing a swarming, physical style to force turnovers and ignite their transition game. Despite finishing the regular season with the fifth-best defensive rating in the NBA—trailing only elite company like Oklahoma City, Boston, and San Antonio—head coach Darko Rajakovic believes the ceiling is even higher.
As the Raptors transition into the 2026 offseason following a hard-fought seven-game series against Cleveland, the focus has shifted from mere effort to structural refinement.
The Rim Protection Priority
During his end-of-season media availability on May 5, Rajaković identified paint protection as the primary area for growth. While the Raptors were eighth-best in the league at limiting points in the paint during the regular season (48 PPG), that number slipped in the playoffs.
- The Center Dilemma: Much of the scrutiny has fallen on Jakob Poeltl, who saw a dip in his rim-protecting impact, averaging just 0.7 blocks in the regular season.
- The Rookie Rise: In contrast, rookie Collin Murray-Boyles (CMB) often outplayed the veteran in the postseason, providing the verticality and athleticism the Raptors’ scheme demands.
The “Unicorn” Frontcourt: Barnes & Murray-Boyles
The pairing of Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles has officially become the bedrock of the franchise. Their defensive versatility allows Rajaković to switch across multiple positions without losing physicality.
However, the next step for this duo is offensive synergy. Rajaković outlined a specific plan for Murray-Boyles to unlock the half-court offense:
- The “Face-Up” Game: While CMB excels as a lob threat and “dunker spot” finisher, Rajaković wants him to develop a face-up game similar to Barnes.
- Pick-and-Roll Evolution: The coaching staff plans to put the ball in the rookie’s hands more frequently as a playmaker, easing the shot-creation burden on Barnes and the guards.
Offseason Ambitions: Shooting and Star Power
While the Raptors are committed to their defensive identity, the lack of half-court shot creation remains their “Achilles’ heel.” The front office is expected to target high-level “3-and-D” wings like the Pelicans’ Trey Murphy III to address spacing issues without compromising length.
More intriguingly, the Raptors are being linked to “landscape-shifting” moves. With Masai Ujiri now in Dallas and the Eastern Conference hierarchy in flux, rumors persist that Toronto could be in the mix for superstars like Jamal Murray or even a long-pursued trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The Verdict
The Raptors have successfully established themselves as a “top-five” defensive juggernaut. With Rajaković entering his extension and a clear developmental path for Murray-Boyles and Barnes, the foundation is set. If the front office can secure a legitimate rim-protecting upgrade or a marquee perimeter creator, “The North” could be back in true championship contention by 2027.
Roster Watch: While Barnes and CMB are “untouchable,” the futures of Brandon Ingram and RJ Barrett remain subjects of speculation as the Raptors look to optimize their lineup around their young defensive pillars.
