The Toronto Raptors faced the Milwaukee Bucks in their home opener on October 24, 2025, after a victorious start against the Atlanta Hawks. This matchup highlighted the Bucks’ top player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the Raptors’ need for improvement from key players.
Raptors’ Home Opener Highlights
The Raptors returned to Toronto with optimism after their season opener, determined to build momentum against a Bucks team that has experienced a shift in star power since their 2021 championship. While the Bucks once featured stars like Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton, the current lineup primarily revolves around Antetokounmpo and his supporting cast, which includes former Raptors player Gary Trent Jr. and offseason acquisition Myles Turner.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Dominance
Antetokounmpo was a standout performer, scoring 31 points with an impressive shooting percentage. His stats for the game included:
- 11 of 14 field goals made
- 2 of 2 from three-point range
- 20 rebounds
- 7 assists
- 1 block
His exceptional performance contributed significantly to the Bucks’ 122-116 victory over the Raptors.
Coach Darko Rajakovic’s Challenge to Immanuel Quickley
After the game, Raptors’ head coach Darko Rajakovic discussed the performance of Immanuel Quickley. Currently struggling with his three-point shooting, Quickley was just 1-for-11 from beyond the arc in the season’s early games. Rajakovic expressed concerns, stating, “I’m not happy, because he took only four threes; he needs to shoot seven, eight threes a game.”
Rajakovic, known for his direct coaching style, emphasized his belief in Quickley’s ability as a shooter, encouraging him to take more shots to find his rhythm. Quickley had previously expressed his intent to increase his three-point attempts, aiming for at least ten per game.
The Path Forward for the Raptors
The Raptors’ success this season may hinge on the development of players like Quickley. Rajakovic’s approach to coaching highlights the importance of nurturing talent through constructive feedback.
As Toronto continues its campaign, fans will be watching closely to see how player performances evolve in response to Rajakovic’s bold challenges.
