Raptors open camp seeking redemption, led by hungry newcomer Brandon Ingram
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After three consecutive seasons at .500 or worse, the Toronto Raptors entered training camp determined to change the narrative. New forward Brandon Ingram, acquired from New Orleans, embodies that mindset. A 2020 All-Star and Most Improved Player, Ingram told reporters Monday that chasing outside validation can backfire. “If you look too far and try to impress people, you’ll take failures more,” he said.
Veteran guard Garrett Temple noted that Ingram is not alone in feeling overlooked. Recently acquired guards Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett have similar motivation after last season’s trade from New York.
Scrimmage showcases Ingram, highlights rotations
During the team’s annual end-of-camp scrimmage, Ingram displayed scoring skills Toronto has lacked in recent years, both on and off the ball, according to Sportsnet’s Michael Grange.
Second-round rookie Collin Murray-Boyles, drafted for his defense, also drew praise after hitting a three-pointer and flashing unexpected offensive touch. Head coach Darko Rajaković said the 6’7″ big man “has been doing a really, really good job. He’s not afraid of anything or anybody.” Grange added that Murray-Boyles’ long-range development will heavily influence his NBA ceiling.
Early look at depth chart
Rajaković opened the scrimmage with a first group of Quickley, Barrett, Ingram, Scottie Barnes and Jakob Poeltl. The second unit featured Jamal Shead, Gradey Dick, Ochai Agbaji, Murray-Boyles and Sandro Mamukelashvili.
That alignment left JaKobe Walter—the 19th pick in the 2024 draft—along with Jamison Battle and Jonathan Mogbo outside the primary 10-man rotation. All three averaged at least 17 minutes a game last season, but Ingram’s arrival, Murray-Boyles’ emergence and a full year of Quickley’s services are expected to limit end-of-bench opportunities.
Chomche injury update
Two-way center Ulrich Chomche has missed most of camp with an undisclosed injury and was scheduled for imaging Monday. Nonetheless, Grange reported that the rookie jogged onto the floor to greet teammates during the scrimmage, a sign the issue may not be serious.
The Raptors open the regular season later this month aiming to move above the break-even mark for the first time since 2021-22.
Source: HoopsRumors
