Murray-Boyles Shines as Raptors Defeat Hawks 118-100

Collin Murray-Boyles delivered a standout performance for the Toronto Raptors, scoring 17 points and contributing seven rebounds and seven assists in a decisive 118-100 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on January 6, 2026. Starting in place of the injured Jakob Poeltl, who is sidelined with a sore lower back, Murray-Boyles also recorded three steals and two blocks, showcasing his defensive prowess with a plus-24 defensive rating.

“If you’re not tired, you’re not going hard enough, so I try to be as tired as possible,” Murray-Boyles said, reflecting on his hard-working philosophy. Despite his rookie status, the 20-year-old forward has stepped up significantly, adapting his game to fill the centre position on a Raptors team that has relied on his versatility.

Rookie’s Rise and Team Dynamics

The Raptors’ head coach, Darko Rajakovic, praised Murray-Boyles’s development and his ability to adapt to various roles. “The opportunity he’s taking on right now, he’s doing impressive things for us,” Rajakovic noted. As a ninth overall pick in the previous summer’s NBA Draft, Murray-Boyles was initially expected to play power forward, but the team’s needs have prompted him to embrace a larger role at centre.

Before the game against Atlanta, Murray-Boyles averaged 6.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game over 18.8 minutes. Recently, he has earned more playing time, logging at least 24 minutes in his last five games as he builds trust with the coaching staff.

“A common mistake is when a player comes in, you already have an idea of what he has to be. We’re constantly learning about Collin, what he can do,” Rajakovic added. This adaptability has proven crucial for the Raptors as they navigate the season without Poeltl.

Defensive Partnership and Inspiration

Murray-Boyles has formed a strong defensive partnership with teammate Scottie Barnes. Both players, sharing similar physical attributes, have complemented each other on the court. “We’re both physical, we both guard really well, we can move our feet,” Barnes explained, noting the effective communication they share during games.

Barnes, who won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2022, serves as a source of inspiration for Murray-Boyles. “He brings energy. He’s probably the best defensive player based on his versatility and effort,” said Murray-Boyles. “Just watching that, especially as a young guy, makes me want to imitate that and just be the best I can be.”

The Raptors, with a current record of 22-15, aim to extend their two-game winning streak as they head to Charlotte for their next matchup. Murray-Boyles’s continued growth and impact will be crucial as the team looks to solidify its position in the playoff race.

This report was first published by The Canadian Press.