The Toronto Raptors have been one of the most impressive teams in the league this season. After finishing 11th last year, they are now among the top six teams positioned to secure a spot in the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
With the NBA trade deadline approaching, many are wondering whether Toronto intends to further reinforce its lineup for the second half of the season. Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković addressed the topic and shared his biggest wish ahead of the deadline.
Now, with the NBA trade deadline approaching, many are wondering if Toronto intends to reinforce its lineup further for the second half of the season. Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković expressed his thoughts and shared his biggest wish ahead of the deadline.
Raptors HC Darko Rajaković Simply Wishes for Jakob Poeltl’s Return
Much of the Raptors’ success can be attributed to their decision to trade for Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans at last year’s deadline. The cost of the deal included Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, and multiple draft picks.
The Raptors have been in strong form this season and currently sit in fourth place with a 29-20 record. They are just a few wins behind the Boston Celtics, who are 29-18 in third place, and the New York Knicks, who are also 29-18 and sit second.
Given how Toronto has performed against the top teams in the Eastern Conference, the Raptors appear capable of making a deep playoff run. With the trade deadline just a week away, speculation continues about whether the team will add more help.
Rajaković said decisions at the deadline rest with the front office. For him, the most important development would be the return of his starting center, Jakob Poeltl.
“It’s a front office decision. I love every single player we have on the roster,” Rajaković said. “There’s one guy that I really like, and I would like him to join our team. His name is Jakob Poeltl. That guy can definitely help us in any trades to be our starting center.”
Poeltl, whose three-year, $84 million contract extension kicks in next season, injured his back on Dec. 21 during a game against the Brooklyn Nets. The injury has sidelined him for nearly half of the games since it occurred.
While Poeltl is listed as day-to-day, there is no definitive timeline for his return. According to several reports, he is currently undergoing pain-relief treatment to address the lingering back issue and has been limited to non-contact workouts.
