By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Toronto Raptors face an early setback just two games into Kawhi Leonard’s return.
After a 2–1 start in the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season, the two-time champion is sidelined with swelling in his left knee. While evaluations confirmed no structural damage, fans must wait out a multi-week recovery. Leonard even broke his usual silence to offer some comfort. “Toronto, I’ve appreciated the love since I’ve been back. Returning soon,” he stated.
The team coached by Darko Rajakovic has to navigate a long stretch without Leonard, starting from welcoming the Orlando Magic for two straight games at Scotiabank Arena. Speaking after practice on Tuesday, the Serbian play-caller kept his focus on the silver lining.
“Always when we look at everything that’s thrown at us, we look at that as an opportunity,” he explained. “When Kawhi is not playing, obviously that’s missing a very important piece, but that opens up a lot of opportunities for other guys. We have enough talent, we have enough on the team that we can overcome that.”
“In a weird way, because it’s just the beginning of the season, it gives us more time to work on that. I’m sure what’s going to come out of this is that a lot of players are going to step up,” added 47-year-old Rajakovic. “We’re really focusing on guys that are here, and definitely there are a lot of opportunities over here in this situation.”
His side now prepares to host the Magic on Wednesday and Friday.
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