As the NBA season approaches its one-month mark, the Toronto Raptors have become a compelling storyline despite their struggles. With an abysmal 2-9 record that puts them at the bottom of the league, wins may be sparse, but the team’s efforts are yielding valuable developmental gains.

In their upcoming NBA Cup match against the struggling Milwaukee Bucks—another team with only two wins—the Raptors have a chance to make an impression. This game marks the first of four group-stage contests, and the Raptors are eager to improve on last year’s disappointing 1-3 performance. The matchup will also offer a unique opportunity to measure themselves against superstars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.

Despite the troubling record, there are undeniable positives that distinguish this year’s squad from last year's disappointing 25-57 season. Even with a sample size of just 11 games, intriguing trends are emerging.

RJ Barrett is Thriving Despite Early Setbacks

Just when New York Knicks fans might have begun to regret their choice, Canadian talent RJ Barrett is proving his worth back in Toronto. Once criticized for his inconsistency, Barrett has turned the tide, currently averaging a career-high 23.1 points per game. His transformation is particularly impressive given that he missed the first three games of the season due to a shoulder injury.

Barrett is flourishing in coach Darko Rajakovic's offensive system, which emphasizes movement and teamwork, revealing unexpected playmaking abilities. He’s now averaging 6.1 assists per game—a significant uptick from previous seasons—and has shown an advanced comprehension of defensive reads, particularly in pick-and-roll situations.

This remarkable evolution has placed Barrett in the spotlight for the Most Improved Player of the Year award, currently sitting with odds appealing to fans and analysts alike. Will he continue on this upward trajectory? So far, his performance suggests he may well be a rising star.

Gradey Dick Emerges as a Scoring Threat

After a rocky rookie year, Gradey Dick is making headlines with an impressive transformation into a reliable three-level scorer. The 20-year-old from Kansas is averaging 19.0 points per game while shooting an astounding 58.4 percent true shooting. His ability to spot up behind the arc, finish layups, and execute mid-range jumpers has made him a pivotal offensive piece for the Raptors.

Dick is proving invaluable, drawing defensive attention that positions him second on the team’s scouting report, allowing his teammates more room to operate. His relentless movement on the court—ranking 25th in the league—has kept him in rhythm, showcasing his growing impact. While it's uncertain how his role may change when the team regains its full strength, Dick's current performance suggests he's a budding offensive talent.

Rookie Depth Shines Through Adversity

With several key players on the bench, the Raptors' younger roster members have risen to the occasion. The rookie trio of Jonathan Mogbo, Jamal Shead, and Jamison Battle have all contributed significantly, with Shead holding the second spot in assists among rookies. The depth of this squad, reminiscent of previous bench mob eras including names like Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam, has also provided hope for the team during these challenging times.

Ochai Agbaji and Chris Boucher, seasoned players themselves, have stepped up, with Boucher’s performance, including an average of 11.5 points per game, indicating a return to form after a disappointing last season.

Defensive Woes Persist

Unfortunately, the defensive side of the game tells a different story. Under Rajakovic, the team has emphasized aggressive ball pressure, but this strategy has led to significant vulnerabilities, as evidenced by a poor defensive rating. The Raptors are allowing a staggering 122.7 points per game and ranked last in stopping opponents’ shots from inside the arc.

Such deficiencies underscore the need for improvement, and while the return of injured players like Scottie Barnes may help, the defense may not substantially improve this season without a major tactical shift.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Recovery

As the Raptors navigate through the season, expectations for improvement linger, particularly with an upcoming favorable stretch against teams like the Utah Jazz and Washington Wizards. However, given their current form, the Raptors are seemingly on track for a disappointing season, potentially trending toward one of their worst records historically.

Yet, a silver lining exists—even with the uphill battle of overcoming injuries and a daunting schedule, fans can find solace in the blossoming talents of Barrett and Dick. The Raptors are not merely a struggling squad; they contain the seeds for future success amid the challenges of the present.