By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Following team practice on Thursday, Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic addressed the distinct storylines shaping his squad early in the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season.
Front and center was the status of two-time champion Kawhi Leonard, who remains sidelined under left knee injury management and is currently receiving medical care away from the team. With 35-year-old Leonard expected to sit out three to four weeks, the Serbian play-caller confirmed a firm return date has not been established.
“Exactly seven days from now, we’re going to review where he’s at and have a clearer plan,” he provided clarity on the immediate roadmap, noting that the forward is responding well to his current program. “We’re going to have a much better feel for what it looks like for a return to play. At this point, we don’t have an exact date, we don’t have an exact timeline.”
“He is not here with us in Toronto. He’s getting his treatments right now outside of Toronto,” added the 47-year-old tactician.
Meanwhile, Austrian starting center Jakob Poeltl has faced scrutiny over a quiet statistical stretch, averaging just 2.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per contest at the top of the new season.
“Four games in, Yak is our starter,” Rajakovic strongly defended 31-year-old Poeltl. “We’re the number one defense in the league at this time, and Yak has a lot to do with that. Yak does so many things on the defensive end of the ball that help us tremendously, and a lot of those things will not show up in a box score.”
The Raptors host the Orlando Magic on Friday at Scotiabank Arena, a matchup that doubles as their opener in the Emirates NBA Cup 2026.
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