Raptors’ Strong Defense and Rebounding Offset Early Shooting Woes
The Toronto Raptors are 4-3 after seven games of the 2026-27 NBA season, with strong defense and rebounding helping offset poor three-point shooting and injuries, including Kawhi Leonard’s knee injury.
As of November 3, the Raptors have opened the 2026-27 season 4-3, despite injuries and uneven offense. Toronto’s defense ranks seventh in the NBA in defensive rating at 108.5, and the team is second in steals, averaging 11.7 per game. It also forces a league-high 20.9 turnovers per game.
The biggest offensive concern has been long-range shooting. Toronto has made 31.5% of its three-point attempts, the league’s 27th-best mark. The Raptors have compensated in part by leading the NBA in offensive rebounds and ranking second in second-chance points. They have scored at least 125 points in four of their seven games.
Scottie Barnes has taken on more responsibility with Leonard sidelined. Barnes is averaging 24.4 points, 7.5 rebounds and at least five assists, alongside 2.1 steals per game. He is the only NBA player currently averaging at least 24 points, 7.5 rebounds, five assists and two steals.
RJ Barrett has also lifted his production during Leonard’s absence, averaging 20.7 points over the past five games and scoring at least 20 in six of the first seven. In two November games, he has averaged 24 points and eight rebounds while shooting 51.4% from the field and 40% from three.
Leonard, a seven-time All-Star, was injured after two games and is expected to miss several weeks because of knee swelling. Jakob Poeltl’s place in the starting lineup has also come under scrutiny after he committed five fouls in each of his last two games. He had 12 points and 11 rebounds in a loss to Orlando, but his foul trouble remains a concern. The early results suggest Toronto’s defense and rebounding are strengths, while improved shooting and Leonard’s return could matter to its hopes of contending in the East.