This week the talk around the Raptors has been about Ja'Kobe Walter, not Kawhi Leonard. Toronto is 1-0 after beating Chicago 135-92 and plays at Washington tonight, October 23.
Bigger, Longer, Busier
Walter added nine pounds over the summer, according to the official roster. He told TSN's Josh Lewenberg that he was also measured a half-inch taller and now stands 6-foot-4½ without shoes. Against Chicago he put that frame to work with 3 steals, 4 assists and 10 points in 23 minutes. The Toronto Star reported that he is chasing the league steals crown, and the Globe and Mail described competition as the heart of this defense. Hoopsrumors reported on October 20 that Toronto picked up his 2027-28 option. The front office has already made its call on him.
Washington's Missing Pieces
The Wizards are 1-0 under Brian Keefe but went 17-65 last season with a 121.5 defensive rating. AJ Dybantsa (ankle), Tristan Vukcevic (hip) and Jamir Watkins (knee) are out, and Felix Okpara is day-to-day with an illness. Anthony Davis averaged 20.4 points and 11.1 rebounds in 20 games for Washington last season, and Alex Sarr scored 16.3 a night. Washington played at a 102.5 pace, faster than Toronto's 99.2. That speed should open the floor for the transition game Scottie Barnes discussed with Sportsnet this week.
The Jumper Question
The number to watch is Walter's 1-of-5 from three against Chicago. His defense earns him minutes, but his shot will decide whether he is on the floor at the end of close games. After Washington, Toronto visits Minnesota on October 25 and then hosts Orlando on October 28 and 30. The second Orlando game counts toward the Emirates NBA Cup. Nate Bittle is still sidelined by his foot injury and is expected back on October 28.
When do the Raptors play the Wizards?
Tonight, October 23, in Washington. It is Toronto's second game of the season after a 135-92 win over Chicago.
Is Ja'Kobe Walter under contract beyond this season?
Yes. Hoopsrumors reported on October 20 that the Raptors picked up his 2027-28 option.
