ESPN Previews Raptors' 2026-27 Season, Questions Title Contention With Leonard and Barnes

ESPN has published an offseason recap and season preview of the Toronto Raptors ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season, examining whether the team can return to championship contention.

According to the ESPN report, the Raptors are building their hopes around the combination of Kawhi Leonard and Scottie Barnes as the franchise looks to reestablish itself among the league's top contenders.

The preview raises the central question of whether Toronto's roster is strong enough to compete for a title given what ESPN describes as a stronger Eastern Conference this season.

ESPN's report frames the season as a pivotal test for the Raptors, who are attempting to leverage their core talent to climb back into contention within a conference that has grown more competitive.

Further details on the Raptors' full roster, offseason moves, and statistical outlook were not included in the available excerpt of the ESPN preview.