Darko Rajaković has made significant progress in helping the Toronto Raptors become a playoff contender this season. Now, after the All-Star break, the squad enters a crucial phase that can make or break their season. As a result, Rajaković noted areas to improve for the remainder of the 2025-26 NBA season.
Darko Rajaković’s Focused Area of Improvement for Raptors
Rajaković has been the Raptors’ head coach since 2023, making strides in his growth throughout his third season.
Toronto hasn’t returned to the playoffs since 2022, when they lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round. Previous head coach Nick Nurse departed for the 76ers in 2023, paving the way for Rajaković to take over the reins.
After two years of being in the lottery, the Raptors are back in playoff contention as they are in the mix for an automatic berth. However, they are 2-2 in their last four games and 2-1 since the All-Star break, beating the Milwaukee Bucks and the Chicago Bulls, while losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Rajaković reflected on the team’s recent downs following their loss to the Thunder on Feb. 24, per reporter Josh Lewenberg. He credits the team for having the motivation to win games, but points to one crucial area they need to improve on for the remainder of the season.
“I think that our team has a lot of motivation. I think that our team has a lot of grit, a lot of energy. The area that we need to get better at is focus,” Rajaković said.
What’s Next on Schedule for Rajaković and Raptors
It’s clear the Raptors are taking the next big step in the right direction thanks to Rajaković.
Being in the playoff picture is remarkable progress for a team that was in the lottery for the last two seasons. The team possesses a solid core of Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, RJ Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley. On top of that, they have a decent supporting cast that can help them in the early portion of the playoffs if they maintain their form and secure a spot in April.
Toronto has a 34-24 record on the season, sitting at fifth place in the Eastern Conference standings. They are two games above the Philadelphia 76ers and 2.5 games above the Orlando Magic. However, they are behind the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New York Knicks by 2.5 games.
The Raptors are due for an upcoming matchup at home before going on a brief two-game road trip. They host the San Antonio Spurs, with tip-off on Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. ET.
