Serbian head coach Darko Rajaković enjoyed an impressive start to the 2026-27 NBA season as the Toronto Raptors crushed the Chicago Bulls 135-92 on Wednesday night. The 43-point victory gave Toronto a commanding opening-night win in front of its home fans.
The Raptors controlled the game at Scotiabank Arena and never allowed Chicago to take the lead.
Toronto built a 20-point advantage in the opening quarter, finishing the period ahead 43-23.
Rajaković’s team maintained its momentum throughout the game, eventually extending its lead to 48 points.
Kawhi Leonard Returns as Toronto Dominates Chicago
Kawhi Leonard marked his return to Toronto with 23 points, six rebounds and four steals.
The former NBA Finals MVP helped the Raptors deliver a convincing performance against the Bulls.
Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley also scored 23 points each. Quickley added seven assists, while Barnes contributed six rebounds and five assists.
Canadian forward RJ Barrett finished with 20 points.
Toronto’s defense played a major role in the victory.
The Raptors forced Chicago into 27 turnovers and converted those mistakes into 35 points.
Rajaković’s players also recorded 15 steals and finished with 31 assists.
Chicago struggled to establish an offensive rhythm, particularly during the first half.
The Bulls made only two of their first 20 three-point attempts before halftime.
Matas Buzelis led Chicago with 17 points. Rookie Caleb Wilson added 16 points in his NBA debut.
Serbian Coach Makes Strong Opening Statement
Rajaković, who became Toronto’s head coach in 2023, has built his NBA coaching career through years of work with several franchises.
Before joining the Raptors, he served as an assistant coach with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns and Memphis Grizzlies.
His latest victory highlighted Toronto’s defensive intensity and balanced offensive performance.
The Raptors finished with a 34-13 advantage in fast-break points, showing their ability to turn defensive stops into scoring opportunities.
For Rajaković, the dominant result offers an encouraging beginning to the new season.
Toronto will now look to maintain its momentum as the team continues its 2026-27 NBA campaign.
