By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Toronto Raptors held their annual open practice and scrimmage at Laval on Thursday. The vocal local crowd packed the Universite Laval PEPS athletic complex. And they were joined by some familiar European faces.
Serbian head coach Darko Rajakovic spotted several compatriots in the stands. “Not surprised with the fans and not surprised with Serbians showing up. There’s always some,” he pointed out.
Attention now shifts to Saturday’s preseason opener and the launch of the NBA Canada Games 2026, presented by Bell. With the Raptors facing the Miami Heat at the Videotron Centre, a wave of Greek fans is expected to fill the arena. They are coming to see Giannis Antetokounmpo debut for his new team after 13 years with the Milwaukee Bucks.
This matchup is set to become a major celebration of European basketball culture. Both Serbia and Greece diaspora communities will heavily influence the atmosphere in Quebec City.
Meanwhile, 47-year-old Rajakovic kept his game plan quiet. Asked if Kawhi Leonard will play, the coach remained noncommittal. “We’ll think about it. We’ll see,” he mentioned.
Beyond the immediate exhibition action, the Cacak native also stressed that team identity relies on human bonds. Fostering this chemistry is ‘super important’. According to his plans, the team has group dinners every few weeks to build unity.
Following the Preseason, the Raptors and Heat will begin the 2026–27 Regular Season. The Canadian side tips off its 82-game calendar against the Chicago Bulls in Toronto on October 21, while the Heat host the Minnesota Timberwolves.
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