The Toronto Raptors faced another challenging season, finishing 30-52 under head coach Darko Rajakovic. Despite the anticipated rise of Scottie Barnes, injuries plagued the roster, restricting key players like Barnes and Jamal Shead to limited appearances. Toronto struggled early, losing 12 of their first 14 games. A mid-season shake-up arrived with the acquisition of Brandon Ingram from the Pelicans, who was signed to a three-year extension despite his injury woes. This leaves the future of RJ Barrett uncertain as the Raptors navigate the complexities of their wing rotation.

Darko Rajakovic concluded his second season as head coach of the Toronto Raptors, reflecting on performance and player development. Despite leading the team to a 30-52 record, he emphasizes the importance of rebuilding and improving through hard work and player habits. Rajakovic underscores that this season was about laying the groundwork for future success, focusing on the young core like Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett. Injuries limited their playtime together but significant positives emerged, including a franchise record in assists.

Defensively, the Raptors ranked fifth in the league during the latter part of the season, showcasing Rajakovic's ability to adapt and create a strong culture. His commitment extends beyond the court as he and his wife donate $70,000 to children's hospitals, reinforcing the values he aims to instill in his team. Rajakovic stresses the importance of doubling down on development and building on this foundation moving forward.

The Toronto Raptors are closing out another disappointing season, set to finish around 20 games under .500. Yet, there's a palpable sense of optimism around the team. Star RJ Barrett highlighted the positive energy and morale in the locker room, suggesting that the team has made strides compared to last year's performance. With a 29-50 record, the Raptors have a 32% chance of landing a top-four pick in the upcoming NBA Draft Lottery, crucial for their rebuilding efforts.

Scottie Barnes echoed this sentiment, asserting that the Raptors are building towards a brighter future. The influx of rookies like Jamal Shead and Ja'Kobe Walter has energized the squad, contributing to a sense of hope for next season. Moreover, Brandon Ingram's anticipated return from injury adds another layer of excitement, as he could be a key player for Toronto moving forward.

The Toronto Raptors, with a disappointing 29-50 record, have fostered a newfound confidence as they prepare for the season's end. RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes highlighted a palpable difference in team morale, citing positive energy and growth despite missing the playoffs again. The team is optimistic about its young talent and potential high draft picks, which could bolster their roster significantly next season.

Coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized the focus and engagement of his players during practice, reflecting a commitment to building for the future. The Raptors are eager to finish their season strong, starting with their home game against the Charlotte Hornets before facing tougher opponents in Texas. The anticipation for the next season is high, especially with new players like Brandon Ingram expected to make a significant impact.