Day 11: Toronto Raptors – Rebuild Stalls, Opportunity Looms
The Raptors ended the 2024–25 season with a 30–52 record, finishing 11th in the East and missing the Play‑In tournament -> marking another year without progress in a stalled rebuild.
Performance & Coaching
Under Darko Rajaković, Toronto ranked 23rd in scoring (110.9 PPG), 25th in offensive rating (110.5), and 17th in defense (114.8), resulting in a net rating of –4.3.
Key Transactions
At the 2025 trade deadline, the Raptors acquired Brandon Ingram from New Orleans - sending Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, and draft assets. Ingram later signed a three-year, $120M extension but missed the season due to ankle surgery.
Midseason, Toronto signed A.J. Lawson to a standard two-year deal from a two-way contract. Orlando Robinson was given playing time before being waived late-April.
Analysis
Players like Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Brandon Ingram anchor a promising core. However, inconsistent rotations and lack of shooting depth limited their ceiling.
Fan & Front Office Sentiment
Fans expect change after another disappointing season. GM Masai Ujiri faces a pivotal offseason: double down on internal growth or seek a transformative deal.
Looking Ahead
- Will the team stand pat or make a blockbuster move with its assets?
- Can continuity with Barnes, Ingram, Quickley, and Barrett yield the necessary growth?
- Which role players need upgrades to support this core?
Final Thoughts
Another season slides by, and the Raptors remain at a crossroads. Their next move -> whether trades or player development—will define the path forward.