Raptors aim to boost competitiveness in the weak East by adding a healthy Ingram
The Toronto Raptors are gearing up for the new NBA season, aiming to improve their competitiveness in a relatively weak Eastern Conference. After a disappointing last season with a 30-52 record, the team missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year.
Coaching and Key Departures
Head coach Darko Rajakovic enters his third season with a record of 55-109. The Raptors have seen the departure of key figures, including forward Chris Boucher and president Masai Ujiri.
Season Opener
Toronto will kick off the new season on October 22 against the Atlanta Hawks. The Raptors are looking to make significant strides this year.
New Additions and Expectations
The Raptors have added players such as forward Sandro Mamukelashvili and rookie Collin Murray-Boyles. However, the spotlight remains on Brandon Ingram, who joined the team from New Orleans last February but didn’t play due to injury.
If Ingram returns to full health, he could form a potent partnership with Scottie Barnes, potentially pushing the Raptors back into playoff contention.
Team Strengths
The Raptors boast a strong starting lineup, featuring:
- Brandon Ingram
- Scottie Barnes
- Jakob Poeltl
- RJ Barrett
- Immanuel Quickley
This group of players illustrates the team’s depth and talent. The addition of new bench players, including Mamukelashvili and Murray-Boyles, along with guards Gradey Dick, Jamal Shead, Ochai Agbaji, and Ja’Kobe Walter, might enhance their defensive capabilities and rebounding.
Challenges Ahead
Despite their strengths, the Raptors face significant challenges. The team lacks a reliable 3-point shooter, ranking 29th in the NBA for 3-pointers made per game last season, averaging just 11.8. Health is another major concern, as Quickley battled injuries last season and Ingram has struggled with availability since his rookie year.
Additionally, the Raptors currently lack a backup for Poeltl, raising questions about their depth if he were to miss time due to injury.
Players to Watch
RJ Barrett was the team’s leading scorer last season, averaging 21.1 points per game. However, with Ingram’s arrival, his role may shift. Barrett has expressed willingness to embrace a different role and support his teammates.
The coaching staff, led by Rajakovic, will need to navigate these dynamics effectively as they work to integrate Ingram, Barrett, and Barnes.
The Raptors are poised for an intriguing season, with hopes high as they seek to bolster their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.
