"In the opening moments of his media day availability, Toronto Raptors head coach made it clear what the Toronto Raptors will be hanging their hat on this year and that's defense. Last season after the all star break the Toronto Raptors had the second best defense in the league, only behind the 2025 NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder. "When we talk about defense I really believe that everything starts with Scottie Barnes... our identity starts with him" said Rajakovic."
"Barnes is without a doubt the best defender on the team, his versatility on that end along with his prowess as a rim protector was on full display last season, and Rajakovic knows that the level of their defense starts begins and ends with how impactful Barnes is on that end. Winning the possession battle and getting into transition is something that Toronto has focused on in order to make their offense stronger as well."
Defense is the primary focus for the Toronto Raptors this season. Scottie Barnes anchors the defensive identity through versatility and elite rim protection. After the All-Star break last season, the Raptors posted the league's second-best defense, trailing only the 2025 NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder. The team plans to win the possession battle and push in transition to generate easier offense. Converting defense into offense is a stated goal, with Brandon Ingram's addition expected to change offensive sets and help force turnovers. The roster is viewed as cohesive on the defensive end, with no obvious weak link identified.
Read at Raptors Republic
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