The Toronto Raptors and Atlanta Hawks are gearing up for their season opener on October 25, 2023, in Atlanta, with both teams aiming for a significant turnaround after missing the playoffs last year. Expectations are high, particularly for the Raptors, with forward Scottie Barnes emphasizing the team’s goal to not only make the playoffs but also to succeed once they get there. “I think our expectations for our team is to definitely make the playoffs and win some games in the playoffs,” Barnes stated.
The Raptors have struggled in recent seasons, failing to qualify for the playoffs for the past three years. In contrast, the Hawks have participated in the NBA play-in tournaments for the last four seasons but have not advanced past the first round in 2024 and 2025. As both teams approach the new season, their rosters are bolstered by key players and new additions designed to enhance their performance.
Barnes, who had an impressive last season, was the only player to finish with over 500 rebounds, 300 assists, 90 steals, and 60 blocks. He averaged 19.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.8 assists. The Raptors also return leading scorer RJ Barrett, who achieved career highs with an average of 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. Alongside him is Jakob Poeltl, who also set personal bests with 14.5 points and 9.6 rebounds.
To address an offense that ranked 23rd in scoring last season, the Raptors added Brandon Ingram, who recorded an average of 23.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists during his time with the Pelicans. The team also welcomes back Immanuel Quickley, who averaged 17.1 points and 5.8 assists last season but missed significant time due to a partial UCL tear in his left elbow.
Poeltl shared insights into the team dynamics, stating, “What’s impressed me is how much everybody has bought into trying to figure out where everybody else likes to play or wants the ball.” This collaborative spirit is crucial as they prepare to face the Hawks.
The Atlanta Hawks will rely on the talents of point guard Trae Young, who led the league last season with 880 total assists and an average of 11.6 assists per game. Young’s performance places him among elite players who have averaged at least 24 points and 11 assists, joining the ranks of legends like Oscar Robertson and James Harden.
Another crucial player for the Hawks is Dyson Daniels, who was recognized as the NBA’s Most Improved Player and was a runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year. Daniels averaged 14.1 points and led the league with an impressive 3.0 steals per game. Recently, he signed a four-year contract extension worth $100 million, highlighting his importance to the team.
A healthy Jalen Johnson is also set to make an impact this season. After undergoing surgery for a torn left labrum that limited him to just 36 games last year, Johnson averaged 18.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists. He expressed enthusiasm about returning to full fitness, saying, “It’s been a long time since January, so I’m excited to get out on the court.”
The Hawks made a significant move in the offseason by acquiring Kristaps Porzingis from Boston in a three-team trade. Porzingis averaged 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 42 games last season, adding another dimension to Atlanta’s lineup.
As the Raptors and Hawks prepare for their matchup, both teams are not only looking to end their recent playoff droughts but also to establish themselves as competitive forces in the NBA this season. The season opener promises to be an exciting start to what both franchises hope will be a successful campaign.
