The Toronto Raptors are entering the 2025–26 campaign facing significant pressure to return to the postseason after three consecutive years without playoff basketball.
According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, via Hoops Rumors, the organization’s recent leadership change only added to the urgency. Fischer reported that around the league it was widely expected Bobby Webster would take over as head of basketball operations, and the only surprise was Toronto publicly announcing a search before finalizing his promotion.
The franchise is coming off its 30th anniversary season, one that ended in disappointment when a loss to the Chicago Bulls on April 1 eliminated them from contention. It marked the third straight year without even a play-in appearance, making this one of the longest droughts in franchise history since the early 2010s.
This summer also marked the end of an era. Longtime president Masai Ujiri parted ways with the Raptors after the 2025 NBA Draft, where Toronto selected Collin Murray-Boyles at No. 9 and Alijah Martin at No. 39. His departure placed full control of roster decisions in Webster’s hands.
Pressure now shifts to head coach Darko Rajakovic and a roster that features Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and newly acquired Brandon Ingram. Barnes remains the centerpiece of the team’s rebuild, while Ingram adds star-level scoring that Toronto has lacked since Kawhi Leonard’s departure.
The Raptors’ front office has emphasized development but has also been criticized for failing to translate young talent into playoff success. Despite additions like Gradey Dick and Ochai Agbaji, the team finished near the bottom of the Eastern Conference in offensive efficiency last year.
