Rajakovic Highlights Leonard's Impact on Raptors Offense

Toronto Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic expects Kawhi Leonard to create more offensive opportunities for his teammates after the veteran forward returns to the franchise following an offseason trade from the Los Angeles Clippers. As reported by sports.yahoo.com on October 10, 2026, Leonard missed Toronto's preseason opener against the Miami Heat and was scheduled to sit out another game against his former team.

Rajakovic, entering his fourth season as head coach, emphasized the importance of building the Raptors' offense around Leonard's ability to attract defensive attention. The coach said Toronto must provide adequate spacing and effective screens to maximize the forward's strengths and help other players find scoring opportunities.

Rajakovic explained how opposing defenses focusing on Leonard could benefit the rest of Toronto's lineup.

"Just the gravity that he creates... he's going to create opportunities for other guys. Kawhi is such a force offensively," Rajakovic told reporters. "We got to provide him space.

We got to provide him with good screening. We got to put him in positions that he can be himself. He needs to be who he is as a player.

The rest of the guys can benefit a lot from defenses closing out on him, loading up on him, etc."

Leonard finished his final season with the Clippers averaging 27.9 points and 1.9 steals per game in 32.1 minutes of action, according to the source. He also recorded 6.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game, while shooting 50.5% from the field and converting 89.2% of his free throws.

Toronto also expects contributions from Scottie Barnes and rookie forward Collin Murray-Boyles as the team develops its offensive options alongside Leonard. Their ability to produce consistently could help the Raptors capitalize on the defensive attention directed toward the veteran.

Murray-Boyles averaged 8.5 points, five rebounds and 1.9 assists during his rookie season with Toronto. He made 198 of 342 field-goal attempts, while his defensive reliability and versatile skill set offer potential complementary strengths alongside Leonard.

Leonard's availability remains an important consideration for Toronto after injuries limited his participation in recent seasons. According to sports.yahoo.com, he missed 17 games last season and 45 games in 2024.

The Raptors are awaiting Leonard's return to the court in a Toronto uniform after his move back from the Clippers. His preseason absences have delayed the start of his on-court involvement with the team as preparations continue for the upcoming season.