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Thoughts & Quotes for Your Group Chat: Raptors vs. Knicks

The Toronto Raptors’ pre-season opener against the New York Knicks on Tuesday night was as much about Kawhi Leonard’s emotional return as it was about the score. After a seven-year absence, Leonard made his comeback in front of a packed Scotiabank Arena, delivering a masterclass in efficiency and clutch play.

In just 17 minutes of action, he scored 21 points on 50% shooting, including a pair of three-pointers and a fadeaway jumper, while also adding five rebounds and two steals. His first points as a Raptor came at the free-throw line, a nod to his ability to thrive in slower-paced offensive sets—a skill that could prove critical as the team refines its playoff-ready systems.

Leonard’s chemistry with teammates was also a focal point, with coach Darko Rajakovic intentionally pairing him with others to rebuild trust and spacing dynamics. Meanwhile, rookie Allen Graves made his debut after missing the first two games, though nerves appeared to hold him back early in his professional career.

Despite the Knicks fielding a secondary lineup, the energy in the arena remained electric, a testament to Leonard’s enduring legacy in Toronto.

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