Raptors Over Under For Next Season Set Alarmingly Low

The Toronto Raptors have an expected win total of 36.5 wins for next season, a significant step back from last season's disappointing year

If last season for the Toronto Raptors was tough, just until you see what this season has in store.

On the heels of losing Fred VanVleet in free agency, Toronto is now widely expected to take a step back next season with a win total projection of 36.5 at most sportsbooks. Those odds lean slightly in favor of the over, but it’s a significant step down from Toronto’s 41-41 record last season and the 46.5 projected win total the Raptors entered last season with.

It remains somewhat unclear what direction Toronto is heading next season. The organization re-signed Jakob Poeltl and brought in veteran guards Dennis Schröder and Garrett Temple, suggesting the Raptors want to compete next year. However, the team had reportedly been looking to trade Pascal Siakam in a move that would have certainly meant more losing next season.

Better chemistry under new head coach Darko Rajaković with different leadership should help the situation after former head coach Nick Nurse seemingly lost the locker room during a tumultuous season. That said, it’s hard to know exactly how good Rajaković will be as a first-time NBA head coach despite his impressive credentials and well-respected resume.

If Toronto is going to take a step forward this year, it’s going to come courtesy of development from Scottie Barnes, the former Rookie of the Year who struggles as a sophomore. With another offseason under his belt, Toronto is hopeful Barnes will return as a more efficient scorer who can take on a bigger role as an offensive facilitator.