Raptors Take Urgent Break After Tough 1-6 Stretch

UPDATE: The Toronto Raptors are taking a much-needed break following a grueling stretch of basketball that saw them play seven games in just 11 days, finishing with a disappointing 1-6 record. Head coach Darko Rajakovic has urged his players to rest and recover ahead of their next practice on Friday.

The Raptors’ latest defeat was particularly painful, as they were routed by the New York Knicks 117-101 in the Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinals on December 10, 2025. Knicks guard Jalen Brunson dominated the game with 35 points, putting further strain on Toronto’s already depleted roster.

“It’s really important just to reset the mind, reset the body,” said Brandon Ingram, who led Toronto with 31 points, including an explosive 17 points in the first quarter. The Raptors have now lost four consecutive games, dropping their record to 15-11.

The Raptors’ next matchup is set against the Miami Heat on Monday, giving them a critical five days off to recuperate. This break is especially crucial for point guard Immanuel Quickley and swingman RJ Barrett, both of whom missed the knockout game against New York. Quickley was sidelined due to an undisclosed illness, while Barrett continues to recover from a sprained right knee.

“Seven games in 11 days. We definitely need it. We need to get healthy,” said Jamal Shead, who stepped up with a career-high 18 points in the absence of Quickley. “RJ, Quick, just our entire team, we just need our bodies to get right.”

Ingram contributed not just points but also seven assists and six rebounds, showcasing his versatility despite the team’s struggles. Scottie Barnes added 13 points, while Shead contributed eight assists and three rebounds. Bench players struggled, with several failing to score, a clear indication of the Raptors’ lack of depth.

Rajakovic has emphasized that every loss serves as a learning opportunity, and despite the disappointing outcome against New York, he expressed optimism. “It’s hard for young players to take on new roles, but that’s the job,” he noted. “I think it’s a great learning opportunity for all of them. Our spirit was great; we competed the whole game.”

“One big lesson I take away is we have little margin for error, especially when we have guys in and out of the lineup,” Ingram added, reflecting on the team’s challenges this season.

Meanwhile, the Knicks secured their fourth consecutive victory and advanced to face the Orlando Magic in Las Vegas on Saturday. Karl-Anthony Towns, who was a game-time decision, delivered a strong performance with a double-double of 14 points and 16 rebounds.

As the Raptors look to regroup and refocus, fans are hoping that this rest period will provide the necessary recovery to bounce back against the Heat. Stay tuned for updates as Toronto aims to turn its season around.