When Toronto Raptors Head Coach Darko Rajakovic wrapped up during the team’s 2026-27 Media Day, he jokingly gave the writers, content creators, and personnel a piece of tongue-in-cheek advice:
“You’re too serious…got to loosen up.”
It was met with laughter in the room, but Rajakovic was right. Kawhi Leonard’s return has seemingly elevated the entire Raptors’ ecosystem of expectations, media included, and there was a notable tension in the room. But like Leonard, Rajakovic’s own “Fun Guy” approach to coaching
might be the perfect reminder why he’s the best person to help guide this team through the fascinating season ahead.
Here are four more takeaways from Rajakovic’s media availability:
Load management sequel
“We’re going to continue working hard, it doesn’t matter who’s on the floor.”
“We know what we’re walking into. We know how professional Kawhi is. We believe in our medical staff.”
After shouting out Vice President of Player Health and Performance Alex McKechnie, it was only a matter of time before Rajakovic addressed Leonard’s “load management”, a term and philosophy the Raptors revolutionized during the 2018-19 season. While Rajakovic sarcastically (mostly) expressed his desire for Leonard to play 82 games and average 48 minutes, it was all but confirmed that the Raptors would likely revert to their approach to managing their superstar’s health.
The best ability may be availability, but not all availability is created equal. Toronto is hoping that Leonard is there when it matters most.
Year two CMB
“He worked so hard this summer. We talked to him about getting into even better shape. He put in a tremendous amount of work and I think he’s ready to take the next step offensively and defensively.”
It now feels like eons ago that the collective groan of Raptors fans echoed through the city in response to the General Manager Bobby Webster selecting Collin Murray-Boyles in the 2025 NBA Draft. Since then, Murray-Boyles has consistently proven the front-office right and online pundits wrong.
So when Rajakovic beamed about the work Murray-Boyles put in this summer, it’s nearly impossible not to believe it.
Last year’s playoff run won’t be wasted
“For me, it was important to get into the playoffs so we can understand what it takes to compete in that part of the year.”
“That was a big takeaway from all the guys; we’ve got to put more work in, in order to be ready for what’s next.”
In addition to the relentless praise Murray-Boyles received, Rajakovic also spoke fondly of Ja’Kobe Walter’s development over the last few months, particularly how the guard added 10 pounds of muscle.
Rajakovic added that the entire team is in a better place with their conditioning, compared to this time last year. Due to unexpected injuries, the Raptors were forced to deploy players in situations they weren’t normally accustomed to. It feels like no detail is too small for Rajakovic and the coaching staff.
Building on the team’s identity
“The way we want to play on defence…Kawhi helps us there…He has a lot of wisdom and experience that he can pass down…”
Rajakovic’s emphasis on defence was consistently repeated by the players who took the stage afterwards. If there was a single undeniable takeaway, it was that the Raptors will continue to lean into their overt and uber-aggressive defence.
The Raptors Head Coach also challenged Scottie Barnes to finally secure that elusive All-Defensive First-Team spot.
