Toronto Raptors 2026-2027 guide

After a first-round Playoff exit and an up-and-down Regular Season, it was clear that the Toronto Raptors, with that roster, had reached their ceiling.

For that reason, the franchise decided to bring back the hero of the 2019 NBA title, Kawhi Leonard, in an attempt to make a run at the top of the Eastern Conference. Will the controversial addition of the former Clippers star be enough to make Toronto a contender?

At the end of the article, you can check out all the guides to the 30 NBA teams by visiting the Guide Index.

Dunkest NBA Fantasy Basketball is the most-played FantaNBA game in Italy, with more than 200,000 fantasy coaches competing every year since 2013 through points, assists and rebounds. It is free and can be played through the iOS app, Android app and Website.

Key Players

Despite the summer changes, the most important player, at least during the Regular Season, will remain Scottie Barnes (F, 17.0 cr.). Last year he established himself as one of the best defenders in the NBA and, given the absence of a true point guard, also became Toronto’s primary playmaker. With Leonard’s arrival, his assist numbers could increase significantly, perhaps allowing him to surpass the 3 triple-doubles he recorded in 2025/26.

The first option, at least in terms of scoring, will undoubtedly be Kawhi Leonard (F, 15.0 cr.). Injuries and load management remain variables to consider, but the former Clipper is still one of the best players in the league. Especially after averaging 27.9 points per game, a career high, and playing like an MVP candidate for 66 games despite the complicated situation he experienced with the Clippers.

Players to avoid

Despite being the starting center, Jakob Poeltl (C, 9.5 cr.) looks like a poor fit in coach Rajakovic’s system, which is built around athleticism and constant defensive switching. His lack of lateral quickness and the absence of a three-point shot are limitations that could cost the Austrian valuable minutes over the course of the season.

Potential surprises

Collin Murray-Boyles (F, 8.5 cr.) is the main candidate to benefit from the minutes Poeltl could lose. Solid and versatile defensively, he has already shown that he can play center in a small lineup, a solution Toronto could use frequently during the season.

The contract situation of RJ Barrett (F, 10.0 cr.), whose deal expires at the end of next season, could instead help accelerate the rise of Ja’Kobe Walter (G, 7.0 cr.). An excellent defender and three-point shooter, he has all the tools to take another step forward after last year’s convincing Playoff run.

Projected starting five

PG: Immanuel Quickley (Guard, 10.0 Credits)

SG: RJ Barrett (Forward, 10.0 Credits)

SF: Kawhi Leonard (Forward, 15.0 Credits)

PF: Scottie Barnes (Forward, 17.0 Credits)

C: Jakob Poeltl (Center, 9.5 Credits)

Power Ranking

Leonard represents a clear upgrade over Brandon Ingram, both offensively and defensively, and the Raptors undoubtedly come out of this offseason stronger. In addition, such a major change should not compromise the team’s defensive identity or overall balance.

For that reason, Toronto looks like one of the main challengers to the Eastern Conference favorites, alongside the Sixers and Knicks. And if every piece falls perfectly into place, the NBA Finals could become much more than just a dream.

Still have questions?

• Check out the full list of Dunkest Guides
• Message us on Instagram and we’ll be happy to help!
• Follow all the news on our official Telegram channel