Raptors Poised for Resurgence After Busy Offseason
The Toronto Raptors are generating plenty of buzz heading into the new NBA season, as the team has reloaded its roster and looks primed to bounce back from a disappointing 2024-25 campaign.
Retooled Roster Offers Renewed Promise
Much of the offseason focus has centered on the Raptors' big acquisition - landing star forward Brandon Ingram in a blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Lakers. Ingram's arrival gives Toronto a proven scoring threat to pair with rising young talent like Scottie Barnes and Jalen Quickley.
"Ingram is the kind of versatile, two-way player that fits perfectly with what the Raptors are trying to build," said basketball analyst Camden MacMillan. "His ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor will open things up for the rest of the roster."
The Raptors also added depth through the draft, selecting sharpshooting wing Gradey Dick and promising big man Maxime Raynaud. While Dick and Raynaud may take time to adjust to the NBA game, their potential to contribute meaningful minutes provides the Raptors with more lineup flexibility.
Renewed Focus on 3-Point Shooting
One of Toronto's biggest weaknesses last season was its 3-point shooting, an area the team has prioritized addressing in the offseason. The additions of Ingram, Dick, and Raynaud should help space the floor and complement the driving ability of players like Barnes and Quickley.
"Improving the 3-point shooting is going to be key for the Raptors' success this year," noted Sports Illustrated's NBA analyst. "They struggled to consistently knock down open looks last season, which bogged down their offense. If they can become a more reliable perimeter threat, it will make them a much tougher team to defend."
Strengthening the Bench Unit
Another offseason focus for the Raptors was rebuilding their bench rotation, which was a liability at times last season. The team is hoping a revamped second unit led by Quickley, Dick, and Raynaud can provide a jolt of energy and production when the starters rest.
"The Raptors' bench was a real sore spot for them last year," said Raptors Republic contributor Camden MacMillan. "But they've done a nice job adding some firepower there with guys like Quickley and Dick who can space the floor and take some pressure off the starting five."
Outlook for the Season Ahead
With a retooled roster and renewed emphasis on 3-point shooting and bench production, the Raptors appear poised to take a step forward in 2025-26. While they may not be ready to challenge the top contenders in the East just yet, many analysts believe Toronto could be in the mix for a top-6 playoff seed.
"I have a lot of confidence in the Raptors' new-look bench unit, and I think they could be critical to Toronto's leap this season," said TSN's NBA betting analyst. "The circumstances around them in the East might also give them a lift, with some of the conference's top teams dealing with injury issues."
TL;DR
- The Raptors have had a busy offseason, headlined by the acquisition of star forward Brandon Ingram
- Toronto has also added depth through the draft, selecting sharpshooter Gradey Dick and big man Maxime Raynaud
- Improving the team's 3-point shooting and bench production are key priorities as the Raptors look to bounce back
- Analysts believe the Raptors could be in the mix for a top-6 playoff seed in the East this season